What to Expect

Starting June 16, residents with existing Obetz Black Cards will receive a text message from the number 56512 and an email from blackcard@obetz.gov with a link to download their digital card directly to their Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. Many other digital wallet platforms may also be compatible. If you already have a card, you don’t need to do anything! Your card will automatically come to your information on file.

If you do not use a digital wallet, don’t worry — you will still receive a digital image of your card via email and text. You can save this image to your phone and present it at Junction Park, city events, or any check-in location where Black Cards are accepted.

Last summer, we emailed out temporary versions of the Obetz Black Card to help residents get access to their card in time for Zucchinifest. It wasn’t intended as a long-term solution—just a quick way to get cards out fast when nearly 3,000 residents signed up for the Obetz Black Card within a week. This year’s digital Obetz Black Card is different. It’s designed to be a permanent solution that lives right in your phone’s wallet for easier access, faster check-ins, and more perks.

Why We’re Going Digital

• Always accessible – no more worrying about losing or forgetting your card.
• Faster check-ins at parks, events, and City facilities.
• Streamlined verification for programs like Parks & Rec, rentals, and giveaways.
• Future-ready – this digital format allows us to expand partnerships with local businesses and offer more resident perks.

Need Help?

• New resident or don’t have a Black Card yet? Email us at blackcard@obetz.gov with your address and household members, and we’ll issue your digital cards within 72 business hours.
• Don’t have a smartphone? Call us at 614-491-1080 or email blackcard@obetz.gov and we’ll provide alternate instructions.

We’re making this change to serve you better and faster while building an even stronger Obetz community. Please see below for the full FAQ on the Obetz Black Card. Questions? Reach out anytime at blackcard@obetz.gov or 614-491-1080.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Obetz Black Card?

A free resident membership card that provides access to city services, facilities, and exclusive benefits.

What is the benefit of having a digital card?

The Black Card streamlines access to city services and facilities, offering convenience and exclusive perks.

How is the digital card different from the physical resident card?

The Black Card serves as a unified form of identification for various city services, replacing multiple forms of ID. The City will no longer be printing physical Obetz Black Cards, and will be providing each resident with a digital card.

Is the digital card required, or can I still use the original physical version?

If you have a physical card, you can still use it. However, you will be issued a digital card either way.

How will I receive my new digital Obetz Black Card?

You will receive your Obetz Black Card with the email address and phone number you provided when you originally signed up to receive the black card. If you believe your information is no longer correct, please contact us at blackcard@obetz.gov so we can make sure to update your information.

What about the digital Obetz Black Card from last summer?

Last summer, we emailed out temporary versions of the Obetz Black Card to help residents get access in time for Zucchinifest. It wasn’t intended as a long-term solution—just a quick way to get cards out fast when nearly 3,000 residents signed up for the Black Card within a week. This year’s digital Obetz Black Card is different. It’s designed to be a permanent solution that lives right in your phone’s wallet for easier access, faster check-ins, and more perks. You will no longer be able to use the version from last summer once the new digital card are issued.

ELIGIBILITY & ACCESS

Who is eligible to receive an Obetz Black Card?

Any residents of Obetz who can provide valid proof of residency. Proof of residency can include a Driver’s License with an Obetz address, Obetz water bill in head of household’s name, utility bill in head of household’s name at an Obetz address.

Do I need to be an Obetz resident to get the card?

Yes, only current Obetz residents are eligible.

Can children or dependents have their own digital card?

Yes, children under 18 can have a card with a parent or legal guardian’s consent.

Will each family member need their own card?

Yes, each family member will be issued their own card. If you put your contact information in for your child, you will receive their card as well. You are able to forward their information on to the desired contact information or you can email blackcard@obetz.gov to update your child’s contact information.

What if I just moved to Obetz or I don’t have an Obetz Black Card?

Send us an email at blackcard@obetz.oh.us with the following information.

1. Put your home address in the subject line of the email
2. List the full name, birthdate, and phone number for each member of your household who wants a Black Card
3. Send it!
   1. Here is a sample email:
   2. Subject: 123 Main Street, Obetz, Ohio 43207

John Smith, 10/25/1980, 614-555-1212

Mary Smith, 1/10/1980, 614-555-2121

Junior Smith, 6/6/2005, 614-555-4545

Baby Smith, 7/20/2019, 614-555-1212 (use parent’s phone if necessary)

For anyone age 13 or older with access, please include their phone number and email. Cards will be sent via text and email using the info provided. By including your child’s information, you are giving consent for them to have their own digital Obetz Black Card.

If I have a sticker on my physical Black Card that works as entry into the Obetz Athletic Club. If we are no longer using the physical cards, how do I enter the OAC?

The sticker on the physical Black Card will no longer be valid for entry into the OAC. Residents with an Obetz Black Card can stop by the OAC to pick up your free key fob for entry.  

TECHNOLOGY & USAGE

How do I download or access my digital card?

If you are already in the system, your digital Obetz Black Card will be sent out through text message and email on Monday, June 16. You will then be able to add your card to your digital wallet. If you do not have a digital wallet, you will also be sent an image of your digital card to save to your phone photos.

IF YOU ARE ALREADY SIGNED UP, YOU DO NOT NEED TO APPLY AGAIN! YOU WILL ALREADY RECEIVE THE CARD!

Do I need to download an app?

If you do not have access to a digital wallet on your phone, then you will need to download PassWallet, WalletPasses, Google Wallet, or Apple Wallet – whatever is compatible with your phone. If you prefer not to download an app to use the digital Obetz Black Card, then you can download the image card that is sent through email or text message and save it to your phone as a picture.

Is the card stored in my Apple Wallet or Google Wallet?

Yes, if you have either of these platforms the card will store to it when you click the link in your text or email.

Can I print my digital card?

You are able to print your digital Obetz Black Card and we are able to scan the card.

What happens if I don’t have a smartphone?

If you do not have a smartphone, but would still like an Obetz Black Card, please email blackcard@obetz.gov or call 614-491-1080 and we will give you further instructions on how to obtain the card.

Can I access my card on multiple devices?

Yes, you can access the card on multiple devices. Please note, this card is scanned and tracked so it cannot be scanned multiple times at one event for free items and giveaways. You should not share this card outside of your household, if you are found allowing nonresidents to use your card, your privileges will be revoked.

SECURITY & PRIVACY

Is my personal information secure?

Yes! The only information shared on your digital Obetz Black Card are your first and last name, and your card ID number. Your card can only be accessed through your phone or email. There is no login associated with the Obetz Black Card so there is no access to any accounts.

What data is stored on the card?

The only data stored is letting the City know that you are an Obetz resident – same as your water bill.

Will my location or other data be tracked?

The only information tracked through this card is when you check in at the gym, or events throughout the City.

What happens if I lose my phone?

If you lose your phone, you can re-access your card through your email. If you lost the email or text message, please email blackcard@obetz.gov and we will resend the information to you.

UPDATES & RENEWALS

Will my card expire?

Yes, residency verification is required every three years. Because we are reissuing cards, all digital cards sent on 6/16/2025 will expire on 6/1/2028.

How do I update my address or other information?

Email “Black Card Update” to blackcard@obetz.gov to update any information needed for your household.

What happens if I move out of Obetz?

The card expires immediately upon moving out of Obetz. Obetz has the right to ask you for updated residency information at any time.

How will I be notified if my card needs to be renewed?

You’ll receive a text and email notification when it’s time to update your information—30 days before it expires.

USAGE & PERKS

Where can I use the digital Obetz Black Card?

The card provides free entry to open gymnasium times at the Obetz Community Center, early access to community events, and discounts on facility rentals at both the Community Center, and Dixon Quarry. It also includes free admission to ice skating and access to game rentals at Junction Park.

Does it get me discounts or special access to events?

Yes, including early access to community events and discounts on facility rentals. It also includes special promo items at some Obetz events.

Are there any partner businesses that accept the card?

Future benefits may include discounts from participating Obetz businesses.

Will it be used for voting or official ID purposes?

No, you cannot use your Obetz Black Card as an official ID outside of Obetz or for voting in Obetz.

TROUBLESHOOTING

My card isn’t showing up—what do I do?

Contact the City of Obetz at 614-491-1080 or email blackcard@obetz.gov for assistance.

I entered the wrong information—can I fix it?

If you believe your resident information is incorrect, please email “Resident Help” to blackcard@obetz.gov.

Who do I contact if I need help?

You can contact the City of Obetz at 614-491-1080 or email blackcrd@obetz.gov for assistance.