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DECEMBER 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

The commissioners heard an update on an eight month partnership between the Montgomery County Department of Job and Family Services and WDTN-TV called Road 2 Recovery that concluded in November, 2009.  The purpose of the project was to provide information and job search tips to dislocated workers through videos which were initially shown on WDTN but were also made available on-demand on the WDTN, Job Center and County websites as well on Facebook.   Thirty segments were filmed on such topics as resume preparation, importance of networking, starting your own business, how to keep your job, handling job rejection, now to apply for food assistance and seeking a child support modification if you are unemployed.    Road 2 Recovery concluded with a phone bank to give viewers an opportunity to ask JFS experts questions.   You can view the video sequences at http://www.thejobcenter.org/job-seekers/road-2-recovery-videos.html. In honor of his retirement, the Commissioners recognized Joe Klosterman, Planning Director of the Planning Commission, for his 39 years of dedicated and professional service to Montgomery County and its citizens.  Mr. Klosterman's background, experience and expertise have been invaluable in reviewing and providing recommendations on all zoning requests in the townships, as well as taking action on all subdivisions within the incorporated area of Montgomery County.  Joe has earned the respect and esteem of his co-workers, colleagues and associates with his congenial personality, wealth of knowledge, common sense and sound advice. The Commissioners heard a report from the co-chairs of the Montgomery County General Fund Financial Planning Committee which has been meeting since June of 2008 and had participation from 46 people.   The committee's charge was to recommend strategies for developing a balanced General Fund Financial Plan covering the five years beginning 2010 and creating a framework for annual spending.  Three subcommittees were created which focused on Community & Economic Development, General Government, and Justice & Law Enforcement.   The recommendations fall into several areas: revenue generation, efficiency and effectiveness of operations, programs and services, mandated and non-mandated services, business retention & economic development, and public policy strategies.   The Commissioners received an Animal Resource Center (ARC) Update and information about the 2010 Dog Licensing Promotion.   Mark Kumpf, ARC Director, provided information on field and shelter services provided during 2009 as well as information on special programs.   2010 dog licenses will be on sale from December 1st through January 31st.   This year's promotion campaign will include newspaper, TV, web, and radio spots.  Licenses can be purchased at the Animal Resource Center, the Auditor's Office, and numerous outposts around the county.   They can also be purchased through the mail or online at www.mcohio.org/dogs.  For more information call 225-4314. After hearing a presentation from Mark Gerhardstein, Superintendent of Montgomery County Developmental Disabilities Services, about the plans they have for a south facility, the Commissioners approved entering into a contract to purchase property at 700 Liberty Lane.    This property will decrease ride time for many people, and increase space and capacity to address needs in all facilities that are presently over capacity.

NOVEMBER 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

The commissioners recognized the winners of the 2010 Environmental Calendar Contest which was sponsored by the Montgomery County Water Services and Solid Waste District.  Students had a choice of themes: "Be A Water Hero: Conserve to Preserve" or "Fighting Litter is Everybody's Job".   The 19 winners, students in grades K-12, were selected from over 680 entries from classroom projects, Scout troops, after school programs, and individuals. To obtain a free copy of the calendar call 225-4999 or 781-2500. November 10, 2009 the commissioners heard a presentation announcing that the Department of Mental Retardation and Development Disabilities (MRDD) has been changed to Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS).  Mark Gerhardstein, Superintendent of the Montgomery County Board of DDS, explained that the term "Mental Retardation" has been removed from the title of state and county entities at the request of individuals with developmental disabilities because "retardation" has become an offensive term.   S.B. 79 officially changed the name of the department at the state level.   Rubin Garcia, who has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, was an advocate for the name change and the use of "People First Language (PFL) which represents more respectful, accurate ways of communicating. People with disabilities are not their diagnoses or disabilities; they are people, first.

OCTOBER 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

Several times a year the Commissioners hold the meeting in other jurisdictions within Montgomery County to bring local government closer to the people.  The October 27, 2009 Board of County Commissioners meeting was hosted by the City of Miamisburg.   Prior to the meeting the commissioners joined the mayor and several council members on a walking tour of historic downtown Miamisburg.   Mayor Dick Church thanked the commissioners for holding their meeting in Miamisburg and highlighted what is going on in their community.  He talked about the Riverfront Park Project, the Austin Center Project, Byers Business Park, the Mound Advanced Technology Center, Regional Dispatch Center, and construction that is underway at several Miamisburg city schools. On October 27, 2009, the commissioners also received an update on the many human services programs that serve the critical needs of citizens throughout Montgomery County.   Human service programs support vulnerable and abused children, frail and elderly citizens, children and adults with developmental disabilities, people who have lost jobs and pensions, individuals who can't afford hospital care, and homeless adults and families.   Special focus was given to the many programs that serve our frail elderly population. Health Commissioner Jim Gross provided an update from Public Health Dayton & Montgomery County.   He began by discussing GetUp Montgomery County which is a community-wide healthy lifestyles initiative for kids age 2 – 12, their families and teachers.   To be successful GetUp must involve everyone who influences children's choices.  The initiative has a number of intended long term outcomes including community-wide recognition and awareness of the relationship between unhealthy lifestyles and obesity-related diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.   Their Healthy Lifestyles Rx is Five-Two-One-Almost None which stands for the need for 5 fruits & vegetables a day, 2 hours or less of screen time, 1 hour of active play each day, and almost no sugary beverages.  An interactive website will be released the end of October but in the meantime information about the initiative can be obtained on the Public Health website.   There will be a Partner Rally on November 10th at 7:30 a.m. at Sinclair and a public awareness campaign will begin in December.  Mr. Gross also provided an update on the efforts by Public Health Dayton & Montgomery County to protect our citizens from the GetUp Montgomery County.  The update included information on the availability of vaccines and anti-virals in the Miami Valley and recommendations on who is encouraged to get them.     A number of Vaccination Clinics are being set up around the county including 40 school districts/schools.  There are 340 providers in Montgomery County that have signed up to administer the vaccines.  Public Clinics will offer the vaccines free of charge. Public Education is underway and includes a Flu Information Line (224-8796), a Speakers Bureau, distribution of guidance/promotional materials, and creation of a Digital Learning Initiative www.digitallearningportal.org. The Commissioners welcomed Dayton Gems hockey back to Montgomery County.  The Dayton Gems kick off their first season with the International Hockey League (IHL) on Friday, October 16th playing against the Fort Wayne Komets.   Warren Back, Director of Business Affairs, announced that the Dayton Gems will have 38 home games this season at Hara Arena.  They have one more exhibition game this week where the public can get free admission if they bring a can of food.  All the food has been donated to St. Vincent.   Players on the team come from all over:  8 from Canada, 6 from the United States, 2 from Russia, 1 from Finland, and 1 from Slovakia.    The owners have moved to town and are now residents of Montgomery County.   The enthusiasm for the return of hockey to the Miami Valley is overwhelming.   Robyn Lightcap, Director of ReadySetSoar, presented an update on this Montgomery County Early Childhood & Education Initiative which strives to have every child in Montgomery County beginning Kindergarten ready to soar.   The efforts of this initiative have resulted in higher quality in early childhood settings, stronger connections and infrastructure, increased advocacy, and heightened community awareness.  In just one year, capacity in Star Rated Centers grew from 775 children to 3,069 children.    The initiative has impacted higher quality by helping to explore new programs.   They are advocating locally and statewide on childhood issues.   Their listserv is reaching double the initial number of providers and they are developing new strategic partnerships.   In addition community awareness is increasing with parents and pediatricians through business and media connections.   The Montgomery County initiative began with 7 Star Rated Centers in 2008 and has grown to 31 in 2009.   Their goal is to grow to 75 Star Rated Centers by the end of 2010.

SEPTEMBER 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

The commissioners received an update from Martin Kim, Director of Regional Planning at the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission, on Phase I of "Going Places – An Integrated Land Use Vision for the Miami Valley Region".  Going Places is a four year region-based land use planning initiative designed to bring people living and working in the region together to build a clear and shared future land use framework that will guide us in making this regional a better place to live, work, and play.  Phase I looked at existing conditions in the region.   Phase II, public engagement, is just beginning and will take approximately 20 months.   Staff will be asking the community "Where should we go?" and "How should we grow?"   Phase III will bring all the input they receive from the communities together to build consensus on how to build a clear and shared regional growth framework.    The commissioners will review the material from today's presentation before deciding whether to endorse the plan. Christie Montoya from the Ohio Farm Bureau presented information related to State Issue 2 which would amend Ohio's constitution to create a 13 member bi-partisan Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board, chaired by the state's director of agriculture and consisting of Ohio experts in animal care, food safety, farm management, veterinary care, academia, humane society operations and consumer interest.   Proponents say the Board is intended to assure Ohioans have a safe, locally grown food supply and reinforce consumer confidence in Ohio-raised food.  They say it will set standards for livestock and poultry care that take into account issues of food safety, local availability and affordability of food and best farm management practices for animal well-being. The Commissioners accepted a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and recognized the staff of the Office of Management and Budget for their hard work. This program has been promoting the preparation of high quality budget documents since 1984 and more than 1,100 governments (state and local) participate in the program each year.  This is the 26th year that Montgomery County has received this award.  With the challenges that have been facing the county over the last several years, effective financial management is indispensible. The commissioners recognized Paige Anderson for being one of four 2009 National Weed and Seed Poster Contest Winners.  Paige, who was an11 year old fifth grader from the Dayton Public Schools when she created the poster, participates in the after school activities at the Kids in New Directions (KIND) Program at the Dayton Art Institute.    Her poster depicts a Weed and Seed Community that changed drug houses into welcoming homes that are safe places to live.  The four wining posters were announced and displayed at the National Weed and Seed Conference in Tampa, Florida in July.  Gordon Heller, Chairperson of Dayton Southeast Weed & Seed, presented a framed copy of the poster to the commissioners. September is National Preparedness Month.    The Montgomery County Emergency Management director took this opportunity to talk about ways to prepare for emergencies before they strike.  Every person should have an emergency kit for home, work and for their cars.   September 14, 2009 marked the one year anniversary of the day Hurricane Ike came through the region in the form of a strong windstorm which resulted in loss of electricity and major property damage.  The total costs incurred in Montgomery County cities, villages, townships, county agencies, regional agencies, schools, libraries, and hospitals to date is $8,441,869.00 with total Federal reimbursement to date of $6,162,973.00.   Damages sustained by Montgomery County offices and agencies amounted to $305,508.84 in property damage and $496,158.85 in equipment and labor.   The Risk Management Department reported an 85% return on our expenses from insurance and FEMA.    Based on the lessons learned from the windstorm, the Emergency Management Department is developing a better communications process with DP&L for use during emergencies. A number of Delegation of Activities Agreements for services provided through the Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Program were approved by the commissioners at the September 15, 2009 meeting.   Before approving those agreements, they heard a presentation on this three-year program of targeted financial assistance and services which was designed to reduce homelessness.    This temporary program is designed to help people affected by the recession stabilize their housing problems so they do not become homeless.   Every year on September 9, International FASD Awareness Day is observed.  This day was chosen so that on the ninth day of the ninth month of the year, the world will remember that during the nine months of pregnancy a woman should abstain from alcohol. The Commissioners received an update from the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Task Force.  Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders are the leading cause of preventable birth defects such as mental retardation, learning disabilities, and attention deficits.  A number of events have been scheduled around the county September 9th through 11th featuring speakers in the FASD field who will share their expertise with the medical, teaching, and social service communities, as well as with parents and families.  The Commissioners joined the rest of world in proclaiming September 9, 2009 as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day.

AUGUST 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

Several times a year the Commissioners hold the meeting in other jurisdictions within Montgomery County to bring local government closer to the people.  The August 25, 2009 Board of County Commissioners meeting was hosted by the City of Brookville.  Mayor David Seagraves thanked the commissioners for holding their meeting in Brookville and highlighted what is going on in their community.    The commissioners heard an update from Collective Brands Inc. (CBI) which has an 800,000 sq. ft. fully automated Distribution Center located in Brookville.  CBI was formed in 2007 when Payless ShoeSource acquired Stride Rite and Collective Licensing.  CBI ranks as the largest footwear company in the Western Hemisphere with approximately $3 billion in sales.  103 million pairs of shoes a year go through the Brookville Distribution Center.    Aaron Wilcox, director of the center, thanked their community partners – Montgomery County, Brookville High School, and Wright State University – for their ongoing assistance. August 11, 2009, the commissioners recognized August as Child Support Awareness Month throughout Montgomery County and encouraged all citizens to work together to foster a better understanding of the importance of fulfilling financial responsibilities to our children.  Ensuring that children receive the financial support they deserve involves working partnerships between county, state and federal agencies, parents, legislators, judges, healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, employers and many others.  Through the leadership of the Montgomery County Child Support Enforcement Agency, over 107 million dollars is collected each year in Montgomery County.   A number of activites to increase public awareness are scheduled during the month of August.   More information can be obtained by calling the Customer Call Center at 225-4600. August 4, 2009, the commissioners recognized county Criminal Justice staff for receiving one of the National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards for Justice Web, a regional Criminal Justice Information System.  The NACo Achievement awards recognize innovative county government programs.  JusticeWeb was created to give the criminal justice community a more comprehensive and accurate view of the jail population. The status of inmates, their charges, bail, and other factors are constantly changing. JusticeWeb provides the ability to stay on top of this critical information. In addition, JusticeWeb provides access to over 2,000 users in over 150 agencies in two states to consolidate jail booking information, court case information and death records from 30 agencies in 9 counties. JusticeWeb was also created to provide criminal history information. August 4, 2009 the commissioners heard about the Animal Resource Center's License Amnesty Promotion that will be held August 8 – 24, 2009.    During this period citizens can purchase penalty free dog licenses for $16.00 at the County Auditor's office, online at www.mcohio.org/dogs, the Animal Resource Center, Humane Society of Greater Dayton, Kettering Animal Control, and SICSA.  The public will be notified of the License Amnesty Promotion through advertisements on the radio, television, newspaper and internet.

JULY 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

July 21, 2009 Robert Stallman, DP&L Senior Customer Group Manager, provided the commissioners with an update on DP&L Energy Programs which are designed to promote installation of new energy efficient equipment/lighting.   Residential programs include CFL Lighting, Appliance Recycling, HVAC Rebate, and Low Income Assistance.   DP&L is working with retail locations, contractors, local agencies, and local television stations and Dayton Daily News to make the public aware of these programs.   There are also several Business Rebate programs that were launched this year.   Channel Partner Workshops were held in May and had 121 attendees representing 77 different contractors and distributors.    Eighty-seven Rapid Rebate applications and 6 Custom Rebate applications have been received so far.  July 21, 2009 the commissioners were provided information and viewed a video explaining the upcoming United States 2010 Census.   The U.S. Constitution requires a national census once every 10 years.   Census data determine how many seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives and how $300 billion is allocated to states and communities annually.  Census questionnaires will be delivered or mailed to households in March 2010.  Census Day is April 1, 2010.   With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire is one of the shortest in history and takes just 10 minutes to complete.  By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual's census questionnaire responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement agencies.   More information about the 2010 Census can be obtained from Theresa Lane, Partnership Specialist, by calling 937-241-1800 or at http://2010.census.gov/2010census/.    A local census office will open in October 2009. July 21, 2009 the commissioners received an update on Youth Works 2009 from Rocky Rockhold, Supervisor of Special Projects and Youth Activities at MCDJFS.  Due to the availability of Stimulus dollars, the program which normally serves youth from 14 – 17 years of age was expanded to also serve young adults from 18 – 24.   There are currently 1,604 students and 393 employers participating in the TANF program (serving youth 14 – 17) and 277 young adults and 166 employers (18 – 24) in the WIA Stimulus program.  Depending upon the results of assessments for reading and math, some youth may split their time between employment and classroom activities.   A number of Youth Works youth working at County departments were recognized. On July 14, 2009 Marc Burns and Greg Kramer told the commissioners about the Access Center for Independent Living (ACIL) which is a non-profit, non-residential center for independent living funded through Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act.  The Access Center's board and staff are comprised entirely of people with disabilities.   Their mission is "to ensure that people with disabilities have complete access to the communities in which they wish to live."  The Center provides advocacy, information and referral, independent living skills training, peer support, a recycled durable medical equipment program and assists individuals in transitioning from institutional settings to community living.    Ohio is one of 34 states to receive funding for demonstration projects which will enable about 2,200 Ohio seniors and persons with disabilities to relocate from institutions to home and community-based settings.  The local program is called HOME Choice.  People interested in this program, or any other service, should call 937-341-5202. The Access Center is hosting a celebration of the 19th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at Courthouse Square on Friday, July 24th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.   Bart Woodley, Marketing Director for Winter Guard International, explained that Dayton-based Winter Guard International, which he estimates brings over $15 million dollars in economic impact to the region each year, also raised $22,000 for a national cancer organization during its competition this year.   The organization challenged performers to raise money prior to coming to the competition and, at the event, the group collected money from a portion of all ticket sales, as well as proceeds from a raffle.   Ron Nankervis, Executive Director of Winter Guard, presented the check to Amy Ritze from Susan G. Komen for the Cure, an organization focused on fighting breast cancer at the commission meeting on July 14, 2009.   Ms. Ritze expressed her gratitude for their efforts to raise funds and raise awareness, particularly because many of the participants at Winter Guard are young women.   The commissioners stated that Montgomery County is very proud to be the home of Winter Guard!

JUNE 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

Several times a year the Commissioners hold the meeting in other jurisdictions within Montgomery County to bring local government closer to the people.  The June 30, 2009 Board of County Commissioners meeting was hosted by the City of Clayton.  City Manager David Rowlands thanked the commissioners for holding their meeting in Clayton and highlighted what is going on in their community. On June 23, 2009 the commissioners heard from Charlie Shoemaker, Executive Director of Five Rivers MetroParks.  As stewards of our natural resources, Five Rivers MetroParks is dedicated to protecting Greater Dayton's natural heritage and to providing outdoor recreation and education experiences that inspire a lasting personal connection with nature.   They offer a multitude of educational programming to residents of the Miami Valley that are designed to be participatory, educational, and fun.  Five Rivers MetroParks strives to be recognized as an indispensable leader in the quality of life, wellness and economic vitality of the community by creating a culture of health, fitness and wellness while connecting people with nature. They offer a safe environment where residents can enjoy and learn about our natural resources so they will be here for future generations to enjoy. On June 16, 2009 the commissioners heard a presentation from Montgomery County Water Services entitled "Unaccounted for Water and Leak Detection 2009."   While a 10-20% allowance for unaccounted-for water use is normal, in 2007 lost water for the southern system was at 19.2% or approximately 3.8 million gallons and a cost of $4,850 per day.   Water can be unaccounted-for due to unauthorized unmetered usage (loss from fire hydrants on construction sites, or unauthorized bypassing of meters on services) or inaccurate metering.   It can also be the result of system leakage or fire hydrant leaks.  In 2008 the department adopted a program to right size meters, account for construction site theft, and most importantly detect leaks.   By dealing with leaks as they are discovered we can minimize lost water, minimize operating costs, minimize restoration costs, minimize the amount of time our customers are inconvenienced and lower the potential amount of claims to be filed as a result of a small leak becoming much more. On June 9, 2009, Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park Superintendent Dean Alexander provided an overview of the various units that make up the park.  The mission of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park is to preserve, enhance and interpret the historic and cultural structures, districts and artifacts associated with the Wright Brothers, the invention and development of aviation, and the life and works of Paul Laurence Dunbar through the creation of partnerships.  They work closely alongside Federal, state, local and private partners to accomplish their mission, and maintain close, positive relationships with our communities, area businesses, local citizens and many friends of the park.  He identified and described the many facilities around the region that help us appreciate and learn about our exciting history.   He invited the commissioners to attend several upcoming events.   Residents can call 225-7705 for more information about the park and the events.

MAY 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

On May 28, 2009 the commissioners heard from Tim Donnellan, Director of the Community Action Partnership of the Greater Dayton Area (CAP).  He discussed their Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) which provides low income homeowners or renters weatherization services that can improve their home's efficiency as much as 35%.   This may include attic and sidewall insulation, weather-stripping, safety inspections of furnaces and water heaters, furnace repairs, and consumer education.   Last year CAP spent $3.8 million to provide these services to 636 homes.   Due to stimulus funds, they are receiving $18 million for 6/1/09 – 3/31/11 which will allow them to provide services to 1,966 homes.  Although the majority of these homes are in Montgomery County, they also serve residents in Butler, Greene, Warren, Darke, and Preble Counties.   As a result of these additional funds their HWAP work force will increase by 30 people.  They currently use 13 HVAC, plumbing, and heating contractors.     These stimulus funds are creating jobs and allowing residents to save money.  Interested members of the community may call 341-5000 for further information. May 28, 2009 the commissioners also recognized Montgomery County Building Regulations for receiving a "Distinguished Employer" award at the annual Ohio Cooperative Education Association (OCEA) conference in April.   The OCEA recognizes the vital role of employers who provide learning opportunities for co-op and internship students.   Terry Maiwurm from Sinclair Community College nominated Montgomery County for this OCEA Award.  Maury Wyckoff, Chief Building Official, has consistently hired Sinclair co-op students for the past 14 years.   He received guidance from a number of mentors during his college and early work career, and feels that this represents a way for Montgomery County and him to give a little back to our co-op students who are just beginning their careers." On Saturday, March 28, 2009 the Montgomery County Cougars basketball team won the Special Olympics Division III State Championship.   John Blackburn and Eddie Jones work at Stillwater Center through the Montgomery County Board of MR/DD and were members of the team.    The commissioners congratulated John and Eddie and Coach Dennis Terry for their wonderful accomplishment during the May 19, 2009 meeting. The commissioners recognized Deb Downing, Assistant Director of the Montgomery County Department of Job and Family Services, and Judy Mott, Executive Director of the Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District and Manager of Community Development, for receiving Wright State University College of Liberal Arts Alumni Awards.    They were honored by the university at an Alumni Awards Dinner in April. The commissioners thanked the Disaster Recovery Branch, Ohio Emergency Management Agency, for their invaluable assistance related to the Snow Emergency of 2004 and the resultant flooding in January 2005, as well as the September 2008 Windstorm.  Their assistance included procuring approval from the Federal Emergency Management Agency of the large project for installation of a dewatering well to protect the County's Administration Building from future flooding and helping us obtain a time extension for the restoration of the County's Administration Building's auditorium.   As a result of their assistance, Federal and State funding was received totaling $433,013.00. On May 12, 2009 the Commissioners recognized the Montgomery County Mentoring Collaborative (MCMC) 2009 Outstanding Mentor Award Recipients.   Thanks to partnerships and strong collaborations, MCMC has been a driving force to increase the visibility of the need and the number of caring, supportive mentor/mentee relationships in Montgomery County from 2,500 documented in 2001 to more than 23,000 documented in 2006.    In their own way, each of the recipients told how mentoring is rewarding and enriches their lives as well as the lives of the children they mentor.   People interested in joining one of the MCMC partners as a trained mentor can call 236-9965 or go online to www.mentoringcollaborative.org to learn how to make a difference in a child's life. The Commissioners are once again encouraging Montgomery County employees to Adopt a Duck for the URS 6th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta.   This an annual release and river race of up to 15,000 ducks down the Great Miami River is sponsored by United Rehabilitation Services to help them continue bringing the highest level of services to children and adults with disabilities.  The Regatta will be held on June 12th in conjunction with The Cookout for Scouting at RiverScape MetroPark.  Several duck sales will be held at county buildings and at locations around the County such as Krogers and Fifth Third banks or they can be purchased online at http://www.ursdayton.org/Ducks.html or by calling (937) 233-1230.

APRIL 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

On April 30, 2009, the Commissioners learned that the county will received an estimated $2.4 million in federal stimulus dollars to expand its "Summer Youthworks" program.   The current program, administered by the Montgomery County Department of Job and Family Services, offers approximately 1,650 economically disadvantaged youth between 14 – 17 years old the opportunity to get on-the-job training in a variety of entry-level jobs during the summer months.   This additional stimulus money will allow the program to serve an additional 750 youth this year and extends the age limit to 24.  Participants will work about 20 hours a week and receive academic opportunities to improve their communication and math skills.    Employers who are interested in supporting the youth of our community by providing a meaningful work experience to these young people may call 225-6444 or complete the contact form at www.thejobcenter.org. The Department will begin taking initial applications from youth at www.thejobcenter.org and by telephone (225-6202) on Saturday, May 9 at 10:00 a.m. County Administrator Debbie Feldman presented the 2009 Budget Projections during the April 21st meeting.   She explained that the county is experiencing an unprecedented drop in revenues.   The County is projecting a $7.6 million deficit for the current year due to the estimated revenues falling $8.6 million below the 2009 Adopted Budget.   The Commissioners gave Ms. Feldman permission to move ahead with the proposed action plan for addressing the budget challenge which includes budget cuts and utilizing fund reserves.    A formal vote will occur on June 9.   Montgomery County Commissioners joined staff of Montgomery County Department of Job and Family Services in the presentation of a check for $2,700.00 to Burma Rai, CEO of The Foodbank, Inc.   Between March 27 and April 17, 2009 the JFS staff held a Food Drive which collected 2,594 pounds of food and raised $2,700.00 through a raffle, food/candy cart sales, casual day promotion, sale of Entertainment Books, and cash donations.  The total value of all donations was $19,466.20.   The Commissioners congratulated the JFS staff for taking the extra step to help the residents of Montgomery County.   The Ohio Arts Council recently chose nine winners for the 2009 Governor's Awards for the Arts in Ohio.   Dayton's own Cityfolk was honored in the Community Development & Participation category while artist Willis "Bing" Davis received the Irma Lazarus Award.   The Commissioners congratulated the two local winners at their April 21st meeting and congratulated them on this exceptional honor.      Commissioners Dodge and Lieberman attended the Arts Day Luncheon at the Columbus Athenaeum where they received their awards. At their April 7, 2009 meeting Montgomery County Commissioners proclaimed April as "Child Abuse Prevention Month" and called upon all citizens to increase their participation in our efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect and strengthen the communities in which we live.   While the number of child abuse cases did not increase in 2008, the severity of abuse injuries to young children greatly increased.  Commissioners Foley and Dodge participated in an event on March 31st at the Christ United Methodist Church where pinwheels representing each of the child abuse/neglect investigations in Montgomery County were displayed.  The pinwheels will be on display at the church at the corner of Shroyer and Lincoln Park in Kettering through the end of April.  To report child abuse and neglect contact a local law enforcement agency or call Children Services in Montgomery County at 224-KIDS.  April 7th, the Commissioners congratulated the Dayton Metropolitan Housing Authority for being the 2008 winner of the Pioneer in Housing Award from NMA as a result of going above and beyond community partnership into multi disciplinary and creative community collaboration on the River Commons project.  River Commons provides public housing to low to moderate income residents of Montgomery County as well as creating permanent supportive housing for over 60 chronically homeless people.   Although HUD sets a threshold of 20% employment, 70% of the residents at River Commons are employed.   In addition to hearing from The Other Place about the supportive services provided at River Commons, the commissioners also heard about the plans to replace the current building with a new energy efficient and handicapped accessible/adaptable development called River Commons II.    This new building will feature 83 units with full kitchens and the building will have social service offices, a large community room, coin laundry facilities on each floor, and small private meeting rooms for counseling, education or other purposes.  It will be built on the same property and residents will move into the new building prior to the demolition of the current building.   Construction will begin in Spring/Summer 2010 and be completed by the Summer of 2011.

MARCH 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

Several times a year the Commissioners hold the meeting in other jurisdictions within Montgomery County to bring local government closer to the people.  The March 24, 2009 Board of County Commissioners meeting was hosted by Washington Township.  Washington Township Administrator Jesse Lightle highlighted the activities of some of their departments.  March 24, 2009 the Commissioners learned more about the Early Care & Education Initiative ReadySetSoar.   Jenni Roer, co-champion of the Young People Succeeding Outcome Team of the Montgomery County Family & Children First Council and Executive Director of The Frank M. Tait Foundation described the statistics that show the need for the initiative which strives to improve the quality of Early childhood Education for every child in our community.  Robyn Lightcap, Director of ReadySetSoar, described the program and steps they are taking to better prepare Montgomery County's children to be successful in school and in life. On March 17th the Commissioners honored three friends and professionals who have been part of the lives of people in county government for many years – Carl Nichols and Bob Phillips (WDTN-TV) and Denny Cheatham (WHIO-TV).    Many elected officials turned out to extend their best wishes and celebrate the retirement of these remarkable men. On March 17th the Commissioners also recognized Doris Edelmann, Montgomery County Job & Family Services – Children Services Division – for being the 2009 recipient of the Brother Raymond L. Fitz, S.M., Ph.D. Award.  This award is presented each year to a person who exemplifies Brother Ray's dedication to the cause of nurturing and protecting children and families by their daily efforts. Through her efforts at Children Services, Doris has distinguished herself as an exemplary role model in our community, exemplifying community spirit, leadership, volunteerism and making a difference in the lives of others – particularly the children under our care.   Two members of the O.H.I.O. Youth Advisory Board, Timothy Hill and Alex McFarland, were on hand to congratulate her. On March 3, 2009 the commissioners received a briefing from Chris Olinsky and Betty Wingerter, Co-County Directors, on the Ohio State University Extension restructuring plan which will be sent to the commissioners on March 4th. March 3rd the Commissioners were also briefed by Montgomery County Engineer Joe Litvin on possible road closure scenarios related to renovations to the bridge at I-75 and Needmore Road by the Ohio Department of Transportation to occur in 2010.   Due to a number of recent incidents where semi trucks hit the bridge, ODOT intends to raise the bridge 8-10 inches to provide more clearance.   March 2009 is AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH.  Tom Fodor, CEO of the Dayton Area Chapter, announced that the Dayton Area Chapter attained the top national designation of a Highly Performing Chapter, as measured by the American Red Cross Chapter Performance Scorecard system.  Only 1 in 10 chapters nationwide achieves this status.  He thanked the commissioners for their continued partnership which helps ensure that the Red Cross remains ready to prevent, prepare for and respond to the emergencies and disasters impacting the families of our community. Through donations to the Disaster Relief Fund, the Dayton Area Chapter was able to assist hundreds of individuals and families who were without power during the Windstorm of 2008.    They also relocated their emergency housing which provides a safe haven to 37 families. Captain Rick Davis from USPHS (United States Public Health Service) and Dr. Thais Morata from NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) attended the March 3rd Commission meeting to present Montgomery County Water Services with the National Safe-In-Sound Excellence in Hearing Loss Prevention Award.   This award recognizes organizations that document measurable achievements in hearing loss prevention programs.  Connie Muncy, Water Services Safety Officer, talked about the process they went through to create their safety program and apply for the award. On March 3rd the Commissioners received the results of the 2009 Dayton-Montgomery County Homeless Point-In-Time Count.   The count was conducted on Thursday evening, January 29th and the early morning hours of Friday, January 30th.   The majority of the homeless individuals, 847, were staying in one of the community's emergency shelters or transitional housing program.  An additional 14 individuals were unsheltered, living on the street.   There were 110 homeless families, with a total of 335 people, including 218 children.    It was encouraging that this year only 52 individuals, or 10% of the unaccompanied adults, met HUD's definition of chronic homelessness.  In 2007 there were 120 chronically homeless individuals.  The reductions seen in the last three years are due to the increased housing resources and intentional assessment and targeting that occurred through the implementation of the Homeless Solutions Community 10-Year Plan.

FEBRUARY 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

On February 24, 2009, Montgomery County Commissioners declared March 2009 as Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.  Mark Gerhardstein, Superintendent of the Board of MR/DD emphasized that people with disabilities are "Just Like You" in their need for education, vocation, recreation and housing. The Commissioners heard a presentation highlighting the partnership between MONCO Enterprises and The McGregor & Surmount Corp, which received one of the 2008 Erin Ritchey Memorial Awards.   February 24, 2009 the Commissioners accepted a Participation Plaque on behalf of Montgomery County Children Services Division from the Public Children Services Association of Ohio in recognition of its involvement in the 2008 Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign.   April is Prevent Child Abuse Month around the state and Montgomery County will be partnering with Christ United Methodist Church for the kickoff of the awareness campaign on March 31st.    Residents should call 224-KIDS if they think a child is at risk or in danger. On February 10, 2009 Kate Barrett, Sickle Cell Nurse Coordinator, talked about the West Central Ohio Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center.   The Center, located in the hematology/oncology department at The Children's Medical Center, provides services for children, adults and their families who have sickle cell disease, sickle cell trait or other abnormal hemoglobin.  For the last seven years, the Montgomery County Engineer's office has joined with the Center to hold the Sickle Cell Family Christmas Party.  Approximately 200 people attended the event this past December.  The staff of the Engineer's office spends time selecting just the right present for each patient so it is a very special event for all.   To learn more about the Center call 937-641-3111. On February 3, 2009 the commissioner received Dayton's Neighborhood School Centers: A Community's Project Evaluated After Two Years which was prepared by the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community and described the activities to date and plans for the future.  The Neighborhood School Centers (NSC) mission is "Committed to children and families, we work with many partners to develop inventive, enduring relationships to create environments where students will excel and neighborhoods will flourish with schools as their centers.  While it will take five to ten years to draw a definitive conclusion on whether Dayton's NSC is successful, indicators after two years are very positive. Beth Anspach, Communications Director from the local American Heart Association, encouraged the Commissioners and the public to "Go Red for Women" during February to support the American Heart Association's campaign to bring awareness to women and those who love them about their risk of cardiovascular disease, the No. 1 killer of American women and the cause of one in every three female deaths.  This year's theme "Our Hearts. Our Choice." stresses the importance of making healthy choices that help reduce your risk factors.   She reminded everyone that Friday, February 6th is National Wear Red Day. Pam Albers from Brighter Futures, a program of the Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association, told the commissioners about the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) which is a comprehensive nurse home visiting program for low income, first time pregnant women. Specially-trained nurses regularly visit mothers and family members in their homes during pregnancy and teach prenatal care. After the birth, they emphasize parenting skills and healthy infant and child development.  The Nurse Family Partnership is a national program and Brighter Futures, the first NFP developed in the country, is still the largest site.  The program strives to improve pregnancy outcomes, child health and development, and maternal life course development.  Two clients spoke about their experiences with the program and the relationships they've built with their nurse home visitors.  For more information or to sign up, call 208-GROW. The commissioners heard a presentation by the Dayton Metro Library explaining why it plans to place a levy on the May 2009 ballot which would approve a replacement of the 1.25 mill passed in 2004 and an increase of .75 mill for the purpose of general operating expenses for the Dayton Metro Library at a rate not exceeding 2.00 mills each $1.00 of valuation for five years beginning the first half collection 2010.  The Board of Commissioners, as the taxing authority of the political subdivision, is required to approve the request to place the levy on the ballot per O.R.C. 5705.23. The commissioners authorized an Interagency Agreement with the Montgomery County Transportation Improvement District (TID) to provide funding of $500,000.00 to assist in the implementation of the Austin Interchange Development Project.    Montgomery County and the TID are working with local jurisdictions in developing a development along with planned interchange.

JANUARY 2009 COMMISSION UPDATES

Montgomery County leads Ohio in Reducing High School Dropout Rate! Through the partnership of Montgomery County, Sinclair Community College, the 16 school districts and many alternative schools the dropout rate for Montgomery County has improved from 25.6% in 2001 to 11.6% in 2007.  That 14% reduction is the largest improvement of any of Ohio's ten largest counties…and our unique private-public partnership, Fast Forward Center is the reason.   On January 27, 2009, the Commissioners heard an update from the Out-of-School Youth Fast Forward Center.  Each year over 2,000 out-of-school youth are served by the Fast Forward Center reentry partner schools and programs.  Since 2002 a total of 1,619 students who were disconnected from traditional schools have graduated in Montgomery County.  In addition the Taylor Endowment Scholarship Fund for Out-of-School Youth has been established to provide full scholarships to Sinclair Community College. On January 13, 2009, the Commissioners heard an update from the House of Bread, a community kitchen serving predominately the inner-city residents of Dayton, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.  In addition to serving an average of 260 free hot and nutritious lunchtime meals a day to anyone in need, it also serves as the central meal preparation and distribution site for 135 meals a day at four community centers that provide after school study programs.    For more information about the services or if you are interested in volunteering at the House of Bread, please call 226-1520. On January 3, 2009, the Commissioners received copies of the 2009 Adoption Calendar published by the Montgomery County Department of Job and Family Services – Children Services Division.   The calendar spotlights 12 children who are available for adoption and includes information for prospective adoptive families.   There are 70 children waiting to be adopted every day through Children Services.   Aggressive efforts are underway to find these children a forever home.  Profiles and videos can be found at http://www.mcohio.org/childrenservices or you can call 224-KIDS. The Commissioners also accepted a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and recognized the staff of the Office of Management and Budget for their hard work. This program has been promoting the preparation of high quality budget documents since 1984 and more than 1,100 governments (state and local) participate in the program each year.  This is the 25th year that Montgomery County has received this award.