Explore how Franklin County is fostering economic growth and ensuring fiscal security in 2025. This episode showcases strategies for job creation, economic development, and maintaining fiscal stability, with a focus on uplifting businesses and residents alike.

This session highlights Franklin County’s efforts to strengthen safety, security, and justice for residents in 2025. Learn about innovative diversion and reentry programs, victim support initiatives, and incident response strategies designed to build trust and resilience in our community.

In this episode, listen to Franklin County’s 2025 Budget Hearing focusing on Supportive Health and Human Services. Hear how the county is addressing service delivery challenges, advancing early learning initiatives, and investing in health programs to create a stronger and more equitable community.

Discover how Franklin County is transforming its core principles into action during the opening session of the 2025 Budget Hearings. With a $2.2 billion budget, the county is prioritizing Health & Human Services, Community Safety, Racial Equity, Environmental Sustainability, and Economic Development. This episode features presentations by County Administrator Ken Wilson and Deputy County Administrators Joy Bivens and Kris Long, detailing innovative programs and strategic investments that serve every resident, every day.

This special episode brings you the full 2025 Budget Hearings and the final approval session in one comprehensive package. At nearly five hours, this compilation covers everything from Health & Human Services to Environmental Sustainability, Racial Equity, Economic Development, and more. Dive into the details of Franklin County’s $2.2 billion budget and see how the commissioners are creating a thriving, resilient community for all.

In the final General Session of 2024, the Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the more-than $2.2 billion 2025 budget, focused on community safety, economic development, health and human services, and more. Rooted in the commissioners’ Core Principles of Good Governance, this balanced and forward-thinking budget underscores their commitment to ensuring Franklin County remains a place where residents can thrive—not just survive.

This session also featured key investments in affordable housing, public health, workforce training, and community partnerships. The commissioners approved initiatives supporting youth and families through agreements with Action for Children, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio, and the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio to provide learning support, mentoring, and trauma-informed care training.

Resolutions Discussed:

• 2025 Budget: Approval of the annual appropriation measure for FY 2025.

• Youth and Families: Agreements for early learning support, mentoring, and trauma-informed care training.

• Community Investments: Grants for urban agriculture, fashion innovation, and hospitality relief.

• Affordable Housing: MOU for development at Norton Road and a nonprofit for homeowner financial assistance.

• Justice Programs: Peer support and healthcare services for justice-involved residents.

And more….

Tune in to hear how Franklin County is investing in its residents and shaping a thriving, resilient future!

This episode highlights challenges like the aging workforce, transient populations, and lack of child care workers in Midland County. What innovative solutions can communities implement to address similar workforce issues?

Kenneth Wilson welcomes Bridgette Gransden, the County Administrator for Midland County, Michigan. They discuss Dow's significant Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts, including a summit featuring Magic Johnson, and reflect on Bridgette's illustrious career in local government.

They explore the challenges and triumphs of public service, the vital role of positive leadership, and the strategies for managing relationships effectively. Plus, get ready for some personal anecdotes, light-hearted humor, and a lightning round of fun questions.

Also find out how Bridgette and Kenneth turned personal growth and shifting priorities into powerful public service careers.

Key Moments

00:00 Discovered passion for local government career.

10:09 "I prioritized high-paying careers for material gain."

16:08 Encouraging self-reflection through questioning for solutions.

19:28 Housing challenges hinder recruitment and community success.

23:20 Repairing dams with $140M aid, legal concerns.

29:34 Reflection and vulnerability are essential in leadership.

34:55 Struggling well to enhance well-being through positivity.

41:14 Be curious, not judgmental; ask questions instead.

46:53 Bought sweatshirt, spa massage, overpriced gift shop.

52:30 Creating a psychologically safe environment for feedback.

55:35 Boring county administrator stereotype challenges true personality.

Top Takeaways

1. DEI Efforts at Dow: Bridgette shares the impactful initiatives of Dow's SOAR program, including hosting a DEI summit with Magic Johnson as the keynote speaker.

2. Educational Journeys & Public Service: Kenneth and Bridgette reflect on their academic paths and evolving career motivations—from Kenneth's shift from sciences to public affairs and law, to Bridgette’s transition from seeking financial gain to finding passion in local government.

3. Leadership Challenges: Bridgette candidly discusses the complexities of her role, emphasizing relationship management, handling criticism, and the importance of proactive communication.

4. Community Challenges & Strategic Planning: Explore Midland County's strategic efforts in addressing housing shortages, workforce aging, and transient populations. Discover the county’s community vision: "Together, forward, Bold, Midland County: An inclusive community where everyone thrives.”

5. Personal Insights & Humorous Moments: Gain insight into Kenneth's love for "2 and a Half Men," chicken wings, and red velvet cake. Enjoy a humorous debate on whether vegetarians should eat animal crackers.

6. Resilience & Well-being: Bridgette shares her well-being philosophy of "struggling well and functioning effectively," utilizing positivity and character strengths. Discover the Midland Well-being Coalition's initiatives to integrate well-being into community culture.

7. Handling Crises: Learn about Midland County's response to the 2020 dam failures and the county’s continuous efforts to rebuild and manage the dams with the Four Lakes Task Force.

[email protected]

Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana

License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

"Leveraging AI for a Better World": "This is a, area of technology that everyone is is looking at and saying, how can we make the world better, and how can we work together to make the world better in a reliable way?" - Rita Reynolds

In this episode of "Talk Of The County," host Kenneth Wilson engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Rita Reynolds, the Chief Information Officer for the National Association of Counties (NACo). They talk about a myriad of topics ranging from cybersecurity and digital equity to the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI). Throughout the conversation, Rita offers valuable insights drawn from her 36 years of experience working with county IT leaders and her deep commitment to advancing technology at the county level.

Top Takeaways

1. Verifying Suspicious Emails: Rita Reynolds emphasizes the importance of verifying suspicious emails through official alert systems to prevent malware infiltration and protect county networks.
2. Digital Equity and Broadband Access: Digital equity is a focal point for NACo, aiming to ensure universal broadband access across all counties, viewed as an essential utility for daily life similar to water.
3. Collaboration for Accurate Data: Counties play a crucial role in working with ISPs to ensure accurate data reporting, effective use of grants, and successful federal initiatives like the BEED grant to enhance high-speed internet access in underserved areas.
4. Cybersecurity Measures: Cybersecurity remains a top concern for county CIOs, with dual-factor authentication and the use of complex passwords being highlighted as critical preventive measures against cyber threats.
5. Training and Education: Employee training in cybersecurity, including phishing awareness and practical exercises like simulated phishing emails, is vital for enhancing security within county systems.
6. AI in Everyday Life: AI's presence in everyday life through tools like Siri has evolved to include more sophisticated applications such as generative AI, which NACo is exploring through its dedicated committee focusing on policy, ethics, and workforce impact.
7. AI and Human Oversight: AI’s role in decision-making, especially in policy and eligibility for benefits, necessitates human oversight to ensure ethical considerations and prevent biases in data and outcomes.
8. Report on AI’s Potential and Challenges: NACo’s new report discusses AI's benefits, such as improved productivity and service delivery, as well as challenges in governance, security, privacy, and the need for guiding principles for local government use.
9. Creative Cybersecurity Workshops: Rita mentions a creative workshop on cyber best practices, styled after "Shark Tank," held during "shark week" to engage participants innovatively and practically in cybersecurity awareness.
10. AI in Talent Acquisition: Concerns about the authenticity of candidate assessments arise when AI tools are used in HR functions, highlighting the need for a balanced approach between technology and human judgment in the hiring process.

Key Moments

00:00 Career focused on county development and IT.

06:23 Efforts to address bias in book creation.

09:21 Dilemma: Identical application answers and fairness.

12:02 Generative tools modify email tone effectively.

14:51 Enhances productivity, equity, but governance challenging.

18:20 Flexibly use toolkit; counties vary widely.

22:11 Federal grants boost broadband access in communities.

27:27 Advocacy continues for internet access funding partnerships.

31:11 Cyber attacks are inevitable, demanding constant vigilance.

34:33 Interviews reveal weak password security vulnerabilities.

35:32 Educating staff on cybersecurity through training tools.

[email protected]

Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana

License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

Inspiring Youth With Personal Experience: "Just because you start a certain way doesn't mean you have to finish this way." - Antonio Gordon

We're thrilled to bring you Antonio Gordon, an inspiring community leader dedicated to youth development and community progress.

In This Episode:

• Reflections in Basketball: Antonio Gordon shares memories of playing with and admiring basketball talents. He talks about influential figures, including John Davis, and credits his ex-wife for her unwavering support.
• Legacy and Values: Antonio opens up about his desire to be remembered as "unselfish" and touches on the annoyance of selfishness. His humorous critique extends to social etiquette at barbecues and dealing with unexpected child drop-offs at social gatherings.
• Youth Development Initiatives: Both Kenneth and Antonio emphasize the importance of exposing youth to various career paths beyond sports. They discuss the need for strong parental guidance and developing programs that support children in all facets of life.
• The TNT Program: Antonio delves into "Thursday Night Thrillers" (TNT), a community initiative offering positive activities like basketball, along with essential resources such as meals and supplies. He reveals his plans to include children with disabilities in sports activities through a partnership with the Special Olympics of Ohio.
• Supporting Local Teams: Antonio shares his love for local sports teams, supporting the Cleveland Browns and Ohio State. His passionate defense of NBA star LeBron James underscores generational debates around basketball GOATs.
• Parental Pride: Learn about Antonio's heartfelt bond with his daughter, Kennedy, her proactive role in community initiatives, and the importance of maintaining high academic standards to secure her college future. Antonio also discusses his pride in both his children’s achievements.
• Community and Personal Impact: Antonio and Kenneth tackle community engagement topics, discussing how new shoes and accessories can boost youth confidence and the cultural importance of maintaining a fresh look.

Key Moments

00:00 Discussing community program "Thursday Night Thrillers".

05:06 Implemented resources I needed to reduce violence.

07:17 Vulnerability helps connect with and guide youth.

12:16 Athletic aspirations often lead to disappointment, depression.

14:16 Parents must prepare kids for life beyond sports.

18:23 Pushing too hard can drive kids away.

20:46 Excited for prom, living through children.

23:55 Helping others brings fulfillment and personal growth.

27:58 Considering comfortable, versatile shoes for everyday wear.

30:26 Hope for continued peace and adequate resources.

33:47 Dad influenced my education and basketball career.

38:32 Cookout pet peeve: Guests arrive unprepared, troublesome kids.

43:01 Expanding activities for inclusive youth participation.

46:10 Opinions on basketball GOAT differ by generation.

48:45 Whitehall parks and rec instrumental last 2 years.

52:27 Assemblies always ruin new shoes' condition.

56:07 Appreciation, podcast participation, community impact, informal chat.

[email protected]

Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners

We have a very special guest, Michael Bivens, also known as "Juss Mikey." Born in Columbus and educated at North Carolina A&T, Michael's journey from a kinesiology degree holder to a vibrant entertainment personality is nothing short of inspiring.

We'll explore how his early passion for hosting events shaped his career, the influence of his HBCU experience on his personal and professional growth, and the importance of positive energy in everything he does. Michael sheds light on the pivotal advice from his parents, his unique take on civic engagement, and the impact of his work in political content creation. We'll also chat about the role of nostalgia in entertainment, his upcoming projects, and his recent accolades from Nike.

Memorable Moments

04:45 HBCUs inspire camaraderie, motivation, and shared goals.

08:08 Matching my family's high-achieving legacy.

10:48 Motivation comes from embracing challenges, seeking advice.

13:26 First asked about confidence in her presence.

17:46 Political influence through celebrity endorsements in elections.

21:58 Currently not interested in pursuing politics.

23:16 Attention spans are short; use influencers for impact.

27:52 Nike honors me with gifts for influence.

31:30 Start shows with nostalgic 2013-2017 music.

33:17 Conflicted feelings about past music preferences.

38:15 Balancing demographics, valuing guest perspectives on talk.

39:20 Discuss, acknowledge challenges, ensure actions follow.

Top Takeaways

1. Identity and Tribute: Michael Bivens adopted the name "Juss Mikey" from his birth name Justin, changing his name to Michael to honor his father.
2. Educational Journey and Career Shift: Despite having a bachelor's degree in kinesiology, Bivens pursued a career in entertainment, drawn by his passion which started in elementary school.
3. Positive Energy and Experience: Bivens stresses the importance of transferring positive energy and creating enjoyable experiences for everyone he interacts with.
4. HBCU Experience and Personal Growth: Bivens praises the supportive community at North Carolina A&T, an HBCU, which significantly contributed to his personal and professional development.
5. Parental Influence and Decision Making: Bivens acknowledges the beneficial impact of his parents' advice, which led him to attend North Carolina A&T, drawing parallels to finding an unexpectedly perfect fit.
6. Civic Engagement and Voting Importance: Emphasizing participation in democracy, Bivens advocates for voting and being informed about political issues to ensure personal interests are represented and to counter misinformation.
7. Role of Celebrities and Influencers: Bivens highlights the importance of celebrities like Taylor Swift and influencers in engaging young voters and capturing attention on political and economic issues.
8. Addressing Challenges and Personal Growth: Bivens navigates the pressure of living up to family expectations and finding his unique path outside traditional roles, emphasizing resilience over multiple setbacks.
9. Media and Information Flow: The necessity of quickly sharing accurate content to combat misinformation is discussed, highlighting the effectiveness of concise digital content like graphics and short videos.
10. Music and Nostalgia in Engagement: Both Wilson and Bivens agree on the universal appeal of iconic songs and how nostalgia plays a crucial role in engaging audiences, with Bivens frequently using music from 2013-2017 to connect with his listeners.

[email protected]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana

License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

Copyright 2026 Franklin County Board of Commissioners