Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today appointed 11 members to the newly established Workers' Compensation Board of Directors, with William Lhota serving as chair. The independent, external board of directors will serve as the primary fiduciary entity of BWC funds and be held accountable for the bureau's operations.
"The establishment of an independent board of directors brings us a step closer to restoring confidence and accountability in the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation," Strickland said. "The new board will ensure greater professional expertise and strengthened fiscal management of BWC funds."
Strickland selected the 11 non-legislative members of the board from 43 names submitted by the Workers' Compensation Nominating Committee, chaired by Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher.
The non-legislative membership of the board consists of one representative of employees, two representatives of employee organizations, three representatives of employers, two investment and security experts, one certified public accountant, one actuary and one member of the public.
Once convened, the members will form three subcommittees to provide independent advice and verification of BWC financial and operational performance: an audit committee, an investment committee and an actuarial committee.
The following individuals have been selected to serve on the BWC Board of Directors:
William Lhota, Chair and Representative of Employers (for self-insuring employers)
William Lhota, of Worthington, has been president and CEO of the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) since 2004. Lhota previously spent 37 years at American Electric Power, where he served in various management positions. Lhota also created and managed AEP's corporate compliance program in the early 1990s and served as chief compliance officer until his retirement in 2001. Lhota received a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University in 1964 and master's degree in management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1978.
James Hummel, Representative of Employers (for state-fund employers with over 100 employees)
James Hummel, of Dover, is the vice president of human resources for Lauren International, a manufacturer that employs more than 500 people in Ohio. Since 1993, Hummel's responsibilities have been to protect the company's assets and employees, which includes safety and workers' compensation. Under Hummel's supervision, Lauren International created a wellness program that successfully reduced health and workers' compensation related expenses among employees. Hummel received a bachelor's degree from Malone College in 1998.
Jim Matesich, Representative of Employers (for state-fund employers with fewer than 100 employees)
Jim Matesich, of Granville, has worked for Matesich Distributing Company, a family owned wholesale beverage distribution business in Newark, for nearly 32 years. He currently serves as president and CEO, and oversees the company's administration, accounting procedures, investment account and operations. Matesich serves on the boards of directors for the Wholesale Beer and Wine Association of Ohio and Hospice of Central Ohio. He graduated with a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University in 1977 and received an MBA from Ohio University in 1987.
James Harris, Representative of Employee Organizations
James Harris, of Gahanna, currently works part-time for the United Auto Workers on workers' compensation legislation. He retired in 2003 after more than 20 years of experience on the UAW international staff. Harris also served as the director of the Ohio Department of Industrial Relations from 1983-1991. He graduated with a bachelor's degree from Wayne State University in 1980.
David Caldwell, Representative of Employee Organizations
David Caldwell, of Pataskala, is a 37-year member of the United Steelworkers of America. Caldwell has held several positions in the United Steelworkers State of Ohio District 1; he presently serves as legislative coordinator and assistant director. He has also held various local union offices, including president of USW Local 2342 and chairman of the workers' compensation committee. Caldwell is currently the president of the Central Ohio AFL-CIO and a member of the Ohio AFL-CIO Executive Committee.
Philip Fulton, Representative of Employees
Philip Fulton, of Columbus, is the owner of Philip J. Fulton Law Office, a firm that represents victims of workplace injuries in matters of workers' compensation and social security disability. He has served in several capacities at Capital University Law School, including as an adjunct professor for workers' compensation law. Fulton has received several recognitions for his legal work, including the Workers' Compensation Outstanding Service Award from the Ohio Academy of Trial Lawyers in 2005. Fulton received a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University in 1977 and a law degree from Capital University in 1980.
Larry Price, Member of the Public
Larry Price, of Columbus, was a state representative for the 26th House District from 2003-2004. Price is currently the president and chief consultant for L. Price and Associates Consulting in Columbus. He previously served as an assistant to Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman and worked in the Ohio Senate for nearly 20 years as a message clerk and assistant sergeant at arms. Price received a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University.
Charles Bryan, Actuary
Charles Bryan, of Columbus, has 35 years of experience as a casualty actuary. His actuarial career spans several companies including Nationwide Insurance, Ernst and Young, United Services Automobile Association (USAA) and Allstate Insurance. He is the founder and current president of CAB Consulting, a property-casualty insurance consulting company. Bryan serves on the boards of Medical Mutual of Ohio, Safe Auto and Tower Insurance Group. He received a bachelor's degree from John Carroll University in 1968, a master's degree in mathematics from Purdue University in 1969 and an MBA from Golden Gate University in 1976.
Kenneth Haffey, Certified Public Accountant
Kenneth Haffey, of Chester Township, has been a licensed CPA in Ohio since 1986. He is currently a partner in CPA firm of Skoda, Minotti and Co. in Mayfield Village and served previously as a managing partner and vice president for Century Business Services, Inc., a Cleveland CPA firm. Haffey has also worked as a vice president for banks in Cleveland and Chicago and has served as an adjunct accounting professor at Case Western Reserve University since 1990. Haffey received a bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1978 and an MBA from DePaul University in 1982.
Robert Smith, Investment and Security Expert
Robert Smith, of Beachwood, has nearly 30 years of experience in investing, finance, accounting, management and marketing, and is currently serving as president and CEO of Spero-Smith Investment Advisers, Inc., in Cleveland. Smith is a member of several boards of directors, including the Cleveland-Cuyahoga Port Authority, Motorists Insurance Group and Ohio Gratings, Inc. He is also on the board of trustees for the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System. Smith received his bachelor's degree from Ohio Northern University in 1975 and an MBA from Duquesne University in 1982.
Alison Falls, Investment and Security Expert
Alison Falls, of Port Clinton, operates a local practice in Port Clinton that serves financial services institutions, mid-cap corporations and non-profits. She previously served as a managing director for Banc of America Securities, Inc., on Wall Street from 1994-2002. Falls is currently the board chair for the United Way of Greater Toledo. She received a bachelor's degree from SUNY Binghamton in 1970 and a master's degree in economics from The Ohio State University in 1972.
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Columbus, Ohio – The 8-acre Natural Resources Park at the upcoming Ohio State Fair will again provide a variety of educational and recreational experiences for both children and adults. This year's fair runs from Wednesday, August 1, through Sunday, August 12, at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus.
Shade trees, waterfalls, picnic groves and a variety of activities make the Natural Resources Park at the southeast corner of the Expo Center a fair favorite. Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), park attractions this year include a new aviary, a walk-through butterfly garden, a popular kids' fishing pond, Ohio wildlife displays, log-rolling lumberjacks and other live entertainment, as well as a 15-foot animated Smokey Bear who greets visitors by name.
The park's 500-seat amphitheater stage will provide the backdrop for a variety of acts from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily. This year's entertainment includes the Great Lakes Lumberjack Show, Columbus Zoo animals, retriever dog demonstrations on the weekends, along with musical and educational activities.
The kids' fishing pond is fully stocked with channel catfish and bluegill. Children age 14 and younger may fish daily from 11:30 a.m. through late afternoon, using cane poles and tackle provided by the ODNR Division of Wildlife. The division also offers hands-on demonstrations of outdoors skills, including a laser-shot simulator and archery range.
An Outdoor Adventure Center, located in the heart of the park, will help fair visitors plan their recreational activities for every season of the year.
A fully furnished Conestoga camper cabin on display at the park's main entrance will encourage visitors to explore Ohio State Parks' popular Getaway rentals, a program for families who want to experience nature without investing in camping equipment.
While at the fair, visitors can also reserve a campsite or cottage in an Ohio State Park via the online reservation system at the ODNR Information Center.
Smokey Bear stands beside an educational pavilion filled with informative exhibits on a variety of natural resource and recreation topics. Those include a new display on lifejacket and boating safety, water resources, geology, recycling, canalways, mining and conservation.
New this year in the Ohio wildlife exhibit is an aviary featuring dozens of native birds, including bobwhite quail, chickadees, dark-eyed juncos, American gold finch, wood ducks, and Ohio's state bird, the northern cardinal
Nearby, a live wildlife exhibit features animals native to Ohio, including a bobcat, river otter, wild turkeys and bald eagles.
A boardwalk made of recycled plastic takes visitors through a tall-grass prairie landscape, which is similar to the thick fields of wildflowers that once covered much of Ohio.
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Columbus, Ohio – In order to coordinate and expand access to the state's broadband data network, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has signed an executive order establishing the Ohio Broadband Council and the Broadband Ohio Network.
The order directs the Ohio Broadband Council to coordinate efforts to extend access to the Broadband Ohio Network to every county in Ohio. And the order allows public and private entities to tap into the Broadband Ohio Network – all with a goal of expanding access to high-speed internet service in parts of the state that presently don't have such service.
"Ohio's economic future relies on our ability to compete in a high-speed, high-tech global marketplace," Strickland said. "The Ohio Broadband Council will partner with the public and private sectors to help make sure that every Ohioan has viable access to affordable, high-speed internet service, regardless of where they live, work or learn."
The order directs state agencies to use the Broadband Ohio Network rather than the patchwork of public and private networks agencies presently use, allowing the state to realize cost savings and efficiencies.
"By fully utilizing our state broadband network we will be making efficient, responsible use of our public dollars," Strickland said.
In addition to developing a plan for statewide broadband deployment, the Ohio Broadband Council is charged with coordinating all state-funded broadband initiatives, pursuing additional federal investments in broadband, promoting public and private broadband initiatives and addressing the digital divide in Ohio's rural and urban areas.
The Council, to be co-chaired by the state Chief Information Officer and the director of the Ohio Supercomputer Center, will consist of representatives from several state agencies, four state legislators and the director of the Governor's Office of Appalachia or his designee. In addition, the governor will appoint representatives from Ohio's business and labor communities, local governments and the general public to serve on the Council at his discretion.
The governor has charged the Ohio Broadband Council to extend access to the Broadband Ohio Network so that state agencies in all 88 counties can be linked to the nearest connection point on the network. In addition, the order authorizes governmental and non-governmental entities to access the Broadband Ohio Network.
"This is the first step in bridging the digital divide in Ohio, and I look forward to working with industry providers, businesses and our local communities to take additional steps to provide superior broadband access to all of Ohio's 88 counties," Strickland said.
Text of the Executive Order follows:
Executive Order 2007 – 24S
Establishing the Ohio Broadband Council and Broadband Ohio Network
Ted Strickland, Governor
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed an executive order creating a Division of Internal Control and Audit Oversight at the Office of Budget and Management and the State of Ohio Audit Committee.
"This is a step toward ensuring greater efficiency and effectiveness in state government," Strickland said. "By enhancing our internal auditing management practices we will make Ohio government work better for the people we serve."
The order directs the Office of Budget and Management to appoint an OBM employee as chief internal controller to oversee the Division. This individual will work closely with the internal controllers at each agency, state board and commission to ensure the state of Ohio has a strong and effective system of internal control in state government.
Specifically, the order creates a program of internal control, risk management and internal audit functions that will enhance and standardize the state's internal audit functions within each agency, board and commission. The Division will ensure accountability and compliance with internal control programs across state agencies, boards and commissions, especially in mitigating financial risks to state operations.
The enhanced program will focus on all aspects of internal controls including, but not limited to: Fiscal, Financial Reporting, Payroll, Human Resource Management, Procurement and Information Technology (including data security and privacy).
The executive order also establishes the State of Ohio Audit Committee (SOAC), which will be charged with identifying and encouraging effective governmental financial management, internal control and internal auditing practices in all components of Ohio's government.
Representatives from the following offices will be invited to serve on the audit committee: Auditor of State, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Treasurer of State, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, President and Minority Leader of the Ohio Senate, and the Speaker and Minority Leader of the Ohio House of Representatives. The director of the Office of Budget and Management will serve as chair of the audit committee.
The audit committee will be responsible for submitting an annual report to the Governor and Auditor of State on its work as well as any recommendations regarding the role of the committee.
Text of the Executive Order follows:
Executive Order 2007 -25S
Creating the Division of Internal Control and Audit Oversight and the State of Ohio Audit Committee
Ted Strickland, Governor
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio EPA will hold a public information session and hearing on Thursday, August 9, 2007, to accept comments on a draft wastewater discharge permit for the proposed Fostoria Ethanol LLC ethanol plant in Fostoria.
The public information session and hearing will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Fostoria High School, 1001 Park Ave., Fostoria.
During the information session, Ohio EPA representatives will present information about the draft permit and answer questions. During the hearing, which will immediately follow the information session, the public can submit comments for the record regarding the draft permit. Ohio EPA will consider all comments before taking final actions on the permit.
The ethanol plant is proposed to be built in the city of Fostoria and Jackson Township in Seneca County. If approved, the plant would produce 69 million gallons per year of fuel-grade ethanol from corn. To build the facility, the company also needs an air pollution control permit-to-install from Ohio EPA. The Agency will hold a public hearing and comment period for the air pollution permit when it is issued in draft form.
The draft wastewater permit would allow up to 185,000 gallons of wastewater to be discharged to Muskellunge Creek per day. The discharge could not exceed chemical-specific water quality standards that protect aquatic life and human health. The additional discharge would, however, result in a change from current water quality conditions in Muskellunge Creek. Therefore, Ohio EPA is required to consider technical, economic, social and environmental aspects of the proposed project.
Ohio EPA will accept written comments on the draft wastewater permit through August 16, 2007. Anyone may submit comments or request to be on the mailing list for information. Ohio EPA will take all public comments into consideration before deciding whether to issue or deny the permit.
To comment or receive information on the draft wastewater discharge permit, write to: Patti Smith, Ohio EPA, Division of Surface Water, Permits Processing Unit, P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, Ohio 43216-1049.
The application and other related materials are available for review at Ohio EPA's Northwest District Office in Bowling Green by calling (419) 352-8461.
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Columbus, Ohio – Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced two Ohio communities, one company and one nonprofit organization have been recognized with the Governor's Awards for Excellence in Housing and Community Development for their efforts to enhance the quality of life for Ohio residents. The awards were presented during a ceremony today at the Ohio Conference of Community Development Annual Meeting luncheon at the Concourse Hotel in Columbus.
"These communities and organizations have developed successful programs based on local need and have achieved excellent project results," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD). "Award winners provide solid examples of best practices at the local level and we appreciate their dedication to meeting the housing and community development needs of their residents."
The Awards are presented to organizations that demonstrate outstanding housing and community development efforts. This year's award winners, selected by the Ohio Department of Development's Office of Housing and Community Partnerships, implemented exemplary programs funded through ODOD programs.
The 2007 Governor's Awards for Excellence in Housing and Community Development were presented to the following recipients:
Licking County was honored for its successful partnership with The Screen Machine. In 2004, the County was awarded a $160,000 Ohio Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Economic Development Program grant to assist The Screen Machine in expanding operations. The Screen Machine manufactures portable screening and crushing machines for the construction, landscaping, and mining industries. The Screen Machine created 26 jobs and invested $4.5 million in the construction of an 86,000-square-foot addition to its facility in Etna Township and purchased new machinery and equipment. The CDBG funds were used to install 2,460 linear feet of waterlines, permitting the company to meet local fire code requirements.
Village of Montpelier (Williams County) was recognized for its project to renovate 14 building facades and 30 building interiors; install two traffic signals, 4,396 linear feet of street improvements, 2,965 linear feet of storm sewer lines, 15 catch basins, and 41,265 square feet of sidewalks; and improve three alleys in the downtown area. The Village was awarded a $400,000 Comprehensive Downtown Revitalization Tier Two Program grant in 2003 in support of the project. The grant leveraged more than $2.1 million of additional public and private funds.
Muskingum County, which received a $500,000 Community Housing Improvement Program grant in 2005, was recognized for its efforts to provide private rehabilitation, home repair, and downpayment/rehabilitation assistance and rental housing assistance to low- and moderate-income homeowners and renters in the County. The grant leveraged $300,000 of additional public and private funds and Muskingum County provided rehabilitation assistance to six homeowners, home repair assistance to 12 homeowners, downpayment/rehabilitation assistance to three households, and rental assistance to 16 households.
Interfaith Home Maintenance Service (IHMS), located in Youngstown (Muskingum County), provides emergency home repairs and handicapped-accessibility modifications for homeowners with incomes at or below 35 percent of the area median income in Mahoning County. In 2005 and 2006, IHMS was awarded a total of $275,000 through the Housing Assistance Grant Program and received additional funding from the city of Youngstown's CDBG Program, the Area Agency on Aging District XI, United Way, and other foundations. During a three-year period, IHMS utilized these funds to complete more than 1,050 home repairs and handicapped-accessibility modifications, including the replacement of hot water tanks, windows and doors; installation of ramps, handrails, and first floor bathrooms; adaptation of kitchens and existing bathrooms; and the repair of furnaces and porches.
The Office of Housing and Community Partnerships provides financial and technical assistance to units of local government and nonprofit organizations in Ohio for project activities which benefit low- and moderate-income citizens.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Administrative Services announced today that it has contracted with Identity Safeguards, a respected national leader in identity protection and restoration services, to provide a one-year membership to the deaf community affected by the recent theft of a state accounting and financial system backup tape.
This service goes live at 5 p.m., Wednesday, July 25.
To date, there is no evidence that information on the tape has been accessed.
In June, Governor Ted Strickland ordered DAS to source identity theft prevention service to be made available to all people who have sensitive data on the tape. That vendor, Debix, does not have the technical capability to work with deaf customers. After some searching, DAS signed a contract with Identity Safeguards which has TDD and TTY communications capability.
Deaf individuals who have received a letter from DAS should call 1-800-981-7576 to speak with an Identity Safeguards employee. In order to receive one free year of service from the company, the caller will need to provide the activation code listed under their address on the letter.
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Reynoldsburg, Ohio – Professional and amateur chefs from across the state, including First Lady Frances Strickland, will demonstrate delicious recipes featuring Ohio's diverse agricultural and food products during the 20th annual Heartland Cuisine cooking demonstrations in the Taste of Ohio Cafe at the Ohio State Fair.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture - in cooperation with Ohio's commodity organizations, Ohio agribusinesses, the state's top chefs, and numerous Ohio-based supporters - sponsors the Heartland Cuisine demonstrations and cookbook. The cookbook, available exclusively at the Ohio State Fair, allows fairgoers to prepare the recipes for their own families. Heartland Cuisine recipes are divided into nine categories: apple, beef, dairy, fish, lamb, pork, poultry, soybean, and specialties.
The cookbook also features recipes from partners of OHIO PROUD, a logo-identification program designed to increase the awareness and consumption of Ohio grown, raised, and processed food and agricultural products. Most participating grocery stores carry an average of 400 to 600 OHIO PROUD products. When consumers purchase these products, they are supporting local family farmers and the state's nearly $78 billion dollar food and agriculture industry.
For more information on the OHIO PROUD program, call 1-800-IM-PROUD (1-800-467-7683) or visit www.ohioproud.org.
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Columbus, Ohio – The recreational boating industry generates an estimated $3.5 billion for Ohio's economy and supports more than 26,000 jobs, according to a new study by the Great Lakes Commission and the Recreational Marine Research Center of Michigan State University.
The new study shows a significant increase in recreational boating's impact, as compared to similar data compiled in 1999 by The Ohio State University. That year, recreational boating's impact was set at $1.4 billion in Ohio, with support for 19,500 jobs.
"We know recreational boating is a viable and growing industry in the region, which explains why Ohio and five other Great Lakes states are among the top ten states nationally in number of registered watercraft," said Sean D. Logan, director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Titled as "Great Lakes Recreational Boating's Economic Punch," the study uses 2003 watercraft registration data compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard, as well as economic data from individual states. Ohio had a near record 418,300 registered watercraft in 2003.
The study details the primary and secondary economic impacts generated by boaters and the boating industry. Primary impacts in Ohio included $1.96 billion in direct sales of boats, equipment, repairs, insurance and trip-related expenses such as gasoline, lodging, restaurants and marina fees. Additionally, researchers added $656 million in personal income from salaries related to the boating industry and $939 million in value-added expenditures such as restaurant suppliers, repair workers and service station employees.
Overall, the recreational boating industry in the eight-state Great Lakes region directly supported 107,000 jobs and generated a regional primary economic impact estimated at nearly $16 billion. Adding in secondary spending effects, the study concluded the recreational boating industry actually produced a total economic impact estimated at $34.6 billion and supported 244,000 jobs throughout the Great Lakes region.
Other key findings of the "Great Lakes Recreational Boating's Impact Economic Punch" study include:
A copy of the report is available online at http://www.glc.org/recboat/. Additional information on Ohio's boating programs, facilities and boating opportunities is available at ohiodnr.com.
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Columbus, Ohio – Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced that the Ohio Department of Development's (ODOD) Office of Small Business Development has teamed with Columbus-based Employment for Seniors to host "The Best Way to Start a Home-Based Business," a workshop targeting individuals 50 years and older interested in launching home-based businesses. The workshop will be held Tuesday, August 14, 2007 from 8 a.m. to noon at Employment for Seniors, 4500 East Broad St. in Columbus. Registration is $10 before August 8 and $15 thereafter.
"Home based businesses have an important role in Ohio's economy and we are pleased to assist Ohioans over 50 as they seek news ways to generate income and fulfill dreams of entrepreneurship," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "We are excited to team with Employment for Seniors on this initiative. This workshop will be a great resource for this population, who often has a great deal of business and life experiences that can be channeled into successful business ideas."
This dynamic workshop will feature professionals from this age group discussing best practices in the areas of marketing, accounting, finance, legal, insurance and technology. Additionally, representatives from the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) and Ohio's Small Business Development Centers will review the realities of business ownership and the fundamentals of creating a business plan.
The Office of Small Business Development works to make State services available to small businesses to help inspire and create better ways of doing business to contribute to the growth and stability of Ohio's economy. The Office manages a variety of programs and initiatives that assist small businesses in growing and finding success in Ohio. Ohio has 226,875 small businesses with employees according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. That is 98.3 percent of all firms with employees in Ohio. Additionally, Ohio ranks seventh for the number of business establishments. The State's entrepreneurial spirit is further enhanced by the 672,800 self-employed contractors and laborers.
Employment for seniors is a Columbus based nonprofit agency that specializes in free career planning and employment services for people in the "primer" category. "Employment for Seniors works with Ohioans over 50 every day and they represent a very capable, willing, and reliable group who possess a wide variety of skills and experience," said Chuck Jenkins, Executive Director for Employment for Seniors, Inc. "This workshop will be an excellent opportunity for those over 50 who are considering starting their own business to learn how to take advantage of that experience and can-do attitude."
For more information about the workshop or register for the workshop, contact Employment for Seniors at (614) 863-1219 or visit http://www.employseniors.org/.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today responded to the State Inspector General Report of Investigation regarding the circumstances surrounding the theft of a computer back-up device.
"I appreciate the Inspector General's thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the theft of the state data device. The state is taking every precaution to ensure that this type of incident is prevented from occurring again," Strickland said. "We are attempting to hold accountable those determined to bear some responsibility for placing the sensitive, personal information of so many Ohioans at risk."
The Inspector General investigation determined that: "OAKS administrators failed to protect confidential information by authorizing state employees, including college interns, to take backup tapes containing sensitive data to their homes for overnight storage"; "OAKS, OIT (Office of Information Technology) and OBM (Office of Budget and Management) officials failed to report the theft of confidential information to state and law enforcement officials in a timely manner"; and "OAKS administrators failed to protect confidential information by allowing personnel to store sensitive data in an unsecured folder on the OAKS intranet." The Inspector General found no evidence to suggest state agencies or employees engaged in criminal or illegal behavior surrounding these circumstances.
The full Inspector General report can be found here: www.watchdog.ohio.gov.
Based on the findings, the Inspector General made seven recommendations, listed below. Following each recommendation are the state's actions in response.
IG Recommendation:
State's Action: For the reasons outlined in the report:
IG Recommendation:
State's Action:
The governor called for the cessation of the longstanding practice of sending sensitive data storage devices home with employees after learning of the data device theft on June 14, 2007. The Office of Information Technology has directed all agencies to cease any such conduct.
An administrative review of all state boards and commissions is underway.
IG Recommendation:
State's Action:
The governor issued an executive order (Executive Order 2007-13S: Improving State Agency Data Privacy and Security) June 15, 2007 requiring all state agencies to utilize a secure method of storage for sensitive computerized data.
The Office of Information Technology is currently ensuring that all agencies, boards and commissions utilize a secure method of storage.
IG Recommendation:
State's Action:
This was accomplished through the governor's June 15, 2007 executive order (Executive Order 2007-13S: Improving State Agency Data Privacy and Security).
IG Recommendation:
State's Action:
The state contracted with a Columbus-based firm, Interhack, dedicated to computer trustworthiness and information protection to conduct an independent, third-party security assessment of OAKS security. This was called for in the governor's June 15, 2007 executive order (Executive Order 2007-13S: Improving State Agency Data Privacy and Security).
Ohio has conducted regular third-party security audits and will add policy reviews to subsequent audits to ensure the confidentiality, reliability and integrity of OAKS data.
IG Recommendation:
State's Action:
The state will designate a chief security officer for OAKS on or before August 31, 2007.
IG Recommendation:
State's Action:
The state has had initial discussions about the shared responsibilities and costs associated with the theft of the tape with both key contractors, Accenture and Compuware.
It remains unlikely that someone can access the data contained in the device without specialized knowledge and equipment. The State of Ohio has no information to date that the data has been accessed, but continues to encourage everyone to take preventative precautions.
"We have seen no evidence to suggest the data has been compromised," Strickland said.
A review of the information contained in the stolen data device is ongoing until every piece of sensitive information is identified with the assistance of a data forensic expert.
The Inspector General Report of Investigation concluded with the following:
"If there is a silver lining to be found in this matter, it is that despite the many poor decisions that were made, there appears to be little risk to state employees, taxpayers and vendors. Based on our interviews with data-security experts, the technical complexity of retrieving the data makes the possibility that it will be used for criminal purposes remote."
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed House Bill 9, which increases the speed allowed for farm machinery while ensuring safety precautions on Ohio roadways.
"This legislation offers support for Ohio's vital farming community by providing additional tools and flexibility to assist farmers in their daily work," Strickland said. "These new standards will also help lessen the traffic burden on rural roadways while ensuring the safety of all traveling Ohio roads."
State Rep. Jim Carmichael, R–Wooster, sponsored the bill, which requires that farm machinery designed by a manufacturer to operate at a speed greater than 25 mph display a speed identification symbol and a slow–moving vehicle (SMV) emblem.
Drivers operating such machinery above 25 mph will be required to have a valid driver's or commercial driver's license.
Governor Strickland also signed the following bills:
Economic Development
House Bill 134
State Rep. Bill Seitz, R–Cincinnati, sponsored House Bill 134, which modifies corporation law relating to the election of directors and allows business entities of one type to convert to a business entity of another type through written declaration of conversion.
Natural Resources
House Bill 153
State Rep. Bob Latta, R–Bowling Green, sponsored House Bill 153, which directs the chief of the Division of Wildlife in the Department of Natural Resources to enter into the Wildlife Violators compact and authorizes the chief to enter into agreements with law enforcement agencies outside of Ohio.
House Bill 89
State Rep. Bill Coley, R–Liberty Township, sponsored House Bill 89, which grants immunity to persons who choose to donate household goods to charitable organizations.
House Bill 56
State Rep. Joseph Uecker, R–Miami Township, sponsored House Bill 56, which clarifies the rights and duties of the parties to an action for a forcible entry at a manufactured home park.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today recognized 31 Ohio businesses for outstanding contributions to exporting with the 2007 Governor's Excellence in Exporting Award ("E" Award) at an awards ceremony at the Statehouse Atrium. Among the winners was the 2007 Exporter of the Year, Marathon Sensors Inc., located in West Chester (Butler County).
"Ohio is poised to become a leader in our fast-growing global economy, and we must continue to recognize that opportunities beyond our state borders are vital to Ohio's economic success," Strickland said. "e;These businesses represent the kind of drive, vision, and innovation required to be a leader in Ohio's exporting industry. I'm proud to honor them today."
Since 1985 the "E" Awards program has recognized companies and organizations of all sizes that have demonstrated outstanding performance in exporting or heightened awareness of exporting as a vital component of the State's economy. The Exporter of the Year award goes to one Ohio company that exemplifies the State's commitment to international trade.
Marathon Sensors Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets atmosphere sensors, instrumentation and control systems. Marathon's high-temperature products can reduce the amount of fuel required for fuel-intensive processes and help to lower emissions, resulting in an overall "greener" footprint for its customers. Marathon is now the number-one brand in Asia for atmosphere heat treatment, while retaining manufacturing and even growing the number of employees in Ohio.
"Our mission is to strengthen Ohio's economic force not only in the United States but in foreign markets," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as the Director of the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD). "The constantly changing landscape of our modern business climate needs leaders who are not afraid to roll with the changes, and then create change of their own, and we've found those leaders in our "E" Awards winners today."
Ohio is the eighth-largest exporting state and is the only state with exports that have increased every year since 1998. In 2006, Ohio companies exported $37.8 billion in goods, an increase of 8.7 percent over 2005.
2007 Governor's Excellence in Exporting Awards winners
Exporter of the Year - Marathon Sensors, Inc., West Chester (Butler County)Top | More Department of Development News Releases
Columbus, Ohio – Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today addressed representatives from nine Israeli technology companies along with more than 100 representatives from Northeast Ohio companies seeking potential partnerships or investment opportunities at the Ohio-Israel Innovation Forum for Advanced Technologies.
"The Ohio-Israel Innovation Forum is an excellent opportunity to introduce Ohio's talent to Israel's innovation," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "Through the formation of strategic partnerships and investment relationships, Ohio and Israeli companies can create opportunities for sustainable economic success in Ohio and abroad."
The Forum, organized by the Ohio Department of Development, is a weeklong series of events designed to encourage potential strategic partnerships between Ohio and Israeli companies and investors focusing on advanced technology areas including: polymers and advanced materials, information technology, and instruments controls electronics.
Trade with Israel is an important component to Ohio's economy generating more than $307 million in exports last year. One of the 11 international offices for the State of Ohio is located in Tel Aviv, Israel to facilitate trade for the more than 300 Ohio companies that currently conduct business in Israel. Outside of the United States, Israel is the world's leader for start up companies, most of which are concentrated in high technology fields.
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Reynoldsburg, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Agriculture will sponsor a farm pesticide disposal drop-off on Aug. 14 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Fayette County Airport, state Route 38, approximately two miles north of Washington Court House. The collection will be held in conjunction with the Southwest Ohio Corn Growers Field Day
"The Clean Sweep program is designed to protect consumers and the environment," Ohio Agriculture Director Robert J. Boggs said. "Ohio farmers can protect the environment by properly disposing of unusable and out-of-date pesticides."
This collection is one of four being held throughout the state. The pesticide collections are sponsored by the department in conjunction with the United States Environmental Protection Agency. To pre-register or for more information please contact the Ohio Department of Agriculture Pesticide Section at 614-728-6987.
Pesticide disposal collections have been conducted since 1993 with over one million total pounds collected and over 32,000 pounds collected in 2006. Over 6,600 pounds were collected at the Fayette county event last year.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today issued the following statement and proclamation in observance of the life of Lady Bird Johnson:
"Frances and I join people around Ohio in mourning the loss of Lady Bird Johnson," Strickland said. "First Lady Johnson showed an unwavering commitment and enthusiasm for serving our country and its people. Americans will remember her honorable life and work for generations to come."
President George W. Bush has also ordered the U.S. Flag lowered in honor of Lady Bird Johnson on Sunday, July 15.
A Proclamation by the Governor of Ohio
In observance of the life of Claudia "Lady Bird" Taylor Johnson, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Ohio Constitution, that the flag of the State of Ohio shall be flown at half-staff upon all public buildings and grounds of the State of Ohio from sunrise until sunset on the date of her interment, Sunday July 15, 2007.
ON THIS THIRTEENTH DAY OF JULY TWO THOUSAND SEVEN
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland announced today plans to implement a new regulatory policy regarding the ownership and management of property along Lake Erie coastal lands.
"Under this new policy, the state will honor the valid deeds of local property owners along the coast of Lake Erie," Strickland said. "I believe this policy ensures protection of our important natural resources without compromising the rights of landowners."
The New Regulatory Policy Follows:
The State of Ohio, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources ("ODNR"), and its Director, Sean Logan, are defendants in a lawsuit filed in May of 2004 in the Lake County Court of Common Pleas regarding the ownership and management of property along the shores of Lake Erie. Since the inception of the case, the State and ODNR have argued that the lands along the shores of Lake Erie up to the "Ordinary High Water Mark" (OHWM) are lands held in trust by the State of Ohio on behalf of its people. Property owners along the lake, on the other hand, have insisted that their deeds demonstrating property ownership below the OHWM are valid and must be honored and that the State's "public trust lands" position interferes with their private use of land that they own. As he has consistently stated for more than a year, Governor Strickland believes that apparently valid real property deeds must be honored unless a court of law determines that the deeds are limited by or subject to the public's interest in those lands or are otherwise defective and/or unenforceable.
The Governor and ODNR recognize that there are arguable legal claims that some of the deeds have specific defects and that deeds purporting to cover lands below the OHWM may ultimately be found by the Ohio courts to be subordinate to the public's interest in those lands. Still, without such a determination by the Ohio courts, ODNR believes that it must honor those deeds.
The Governor and ODNR also recognize that they have a solemn duty to manage coastal lands in a manner that protects the important resource that Lake Erie represents. In that regard, ODNR has begun the planning necessary to implement the following new regulatory policies:
Property owners who wish to build structures along the shores of Lake Erie that could or would impact coastal lands will no longer be required to obtain leases for the lands within their deeds which are beneath such structures, but will be obligated to obtain appropriate permits from ODNR's Office of Coastal Management before commencing any such construction.
Much like local zoning laws which require homeowners to obtain permits from local officials before building a fence or garage on their own property, this requirement, utilizing the State's existing coastal management authority under Ohio law and the Ohio Administrative Code, will assure that coastal land management interests are not compromised by the construction of unauthorized break walls, docks or other structures.
Consistent with the Governor's view that deeds should be honored unless they are found to be limited and/or unenforceable by a court of law, ODNR has determined that it is inappropriate to require deed holders to lease land that they maintain that they own.
Still, because some land owners would prefer to voluntarily obtain a lease for the property on which they intend to build permitted structures, ODNR will continue to make leases voluntarily available. This will accommodate those landowners wishing to hold an unchallenged, leasehold property interest in the lands beneath their permitted structures.
The Attorney General's office has appointed outside counsel to represent ODNR and Director Logan in the ongoing litigation, and that outside counsel will immediately make the above positions known to the Court in the pending Lake County case. The Attorney General, in his role as counsel to the State of Ohio, has informed the Governor that his office will continue to pursue its current position in support of the public trust lands doctrine.
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Columbus, Ohio – Nearly 1,000 employees of the Ohio Department of Health who work at 246 N. High St. in Columbus should not report to work today, according to Jay Carey, the department spokesman.
Power has been out to the building since Wednesday evening. According to Carey, the problem is the responsibility of American Electric Power.
All other health department employees who do not work at the affected building should report to work today as normal.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced the state has determined that additional information is contained on the computer back-up device stolen last month.
"As we have continued our review we have found sensitive data for additional individuals, former state employees and vendors was contained on the stolen computer device," Strickland said. "All those included in this most recent announcement will be contacted by mail, but individuals can also search for their name on our website or telephone our call center today for that information."
The most up-to-date information and searchable database of individuals with sensitive data on the device can be found at www.ohio.gov/idprotect. Those without internet access can call 1-800-267-4474 for the same information. To date, the state call center has taken over 19,000 calls.
While the state continues to believe it is highly unlikely that the information contained in the stolen device has been accessed, individuals affected by this latest announcement will be offered services from Debix. Approximately 58,391 individuals have enrolled for Debix services under the state of Ohio account.
Among the newly confirmed data on the device:
1. The Names and Social Security Numbers of Approximately 576,000 Individuals
The file contains the names, Social Security numbers and check amounts of approximately 561,126 additional taxpayers with uncashed state personal income tax refund checks (and/or school district income tax refund checks) issued in 2005, 2006 and through May 29, 2007. This includes checks that were cashed after May 29, 2007.
2. The Names and Social Security Numbers of Approximately 8,123 Former State Employees
The names and Social Security numbers for approximately 8,123 former state employees who worked for the state from January 1, 1999 - July 31, 2001 and May 1, 2005 - June 12, 2007. Bank account information was included for approximately 2,073 of those former state employees.
3. The Names and Tax Identification Numbers of Approximately 86,986 Vendors
Approximately 10,840 of the 86,986 vendors on the device also included bank account information.
Additionally, the Ohio State Highway Patrol has made a P.O. Box available for any person to anonymously mail information related to the theft of the device, or the device itself:
P.O. Box 361901
Columbus, Ohio 43236
The Highway Patrol has also established a tip line to report any information on the location of the device or suspect information: 1-877-OHSINTEL or 614-799-3555.
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Columbus, OH – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today will sign the following bills:
Eminent Domain
Senate Bill 7
State Senator Timothy Grendell sponsored Senate Bill 7, which further defines Ohio's eminent domain laws. Drawing upon the recommendations of the Eminent Domain Task Force, SB 7 addresses restrictions on the use of eminent domain for private economic development purposes in the wake of recent court decisions. It provides new definitions of blight, standardizes provisions for public notice and exchange of information on land values and establishes protocols for court awards. This bill will provide greater transparency and accountability for public agencies that have the right of eminent domain, striking a balance between the strong sentiments of property rights advocates and the need for government to acquire private property for legitimate public use. Legislation sponsored by state Representative Bob Gibbs (House Bill 5) contributed to SB 7.
Public Safety
Senate Bill 18
State Senator Patricia Clancy sponsored Senate Bill 18 that prohibits individuals from sealing their criminal records if convicted of importuning, or if convicted of the underlying offenses of voyeurism, public indecency, compelling prostitution, promoting prostitution, procuring, disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, displaying matter harmful to juveniles, pandering obscenity, or deception to obtain matter harmful to juveniles when the victim is under the age of 18.
Natural Resources
Senate Bill 77
State Senator Timothy Grendell sponsored Senate Bill 77 that revises the rules and regulations of the commercial fishing industry while increasing penalties for violations of certain statutes.
Commerce
Senate Bill 102
State Senator Robert Schuler sponsored Senate Bill 102 that creates a short-term liquor permit to be used by non-profit organizations on publicly owned property in certain counties and lowers the population cap giving the Division of Liquor Control the ability to open new state liquor agency stores.
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Columbus, OH – Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced that the Governor's Office of Appalachia (GOA) has teamed with the Ohio State University (OSU) to sponsor the Connecting Rural Ohio Wireless Neighborhood Initiative to deploy broadband to community-owned wireless networks to several communities within distressed Appalachian counties. Up to three communities will be selected to receive a community learning center that will include six computers and a networked printer available at no charge for public use.
"Broadband is a fundamental building block of Ohio's economy as information and telecommunications technology are critically important to our ability to compete in the marketplace," said Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "The Connecting Rural Ohio Wireless Neighborhood Initiative is a positive step toward closing Ohio's digital divide by supporting community efforts to bring the benefits of broadband and technology training to all Ohioans."
The GOA awarded $45,000 from the Appalachian Community and Economic Impact Fund to OSU, which will establish satellite dish ground stations, the wired and wireless technology, computers and printers for the selected communities. The networks will be a useful tool addressing the workforce development and informational technology needs of residents in the area and supporting communities' e-commerce initiatives.
"Increased connectivity is a high priority for the Governor's Office of Appalachia and OSU is an outstanding partner with us as we pursue opportunities to expand broadband availability throughout the region, improving Appalachian counties' ability to compete for business investment and advance the skills of its workforce," said GOA Director Fred Deel.
The Governor's Office of Appalachia is a division of the Department of Development and represents the interests of the 29 counties comprising East Central, Southeast and Southern Ohio. The GOA works on behalf of the Appalachian Regional Commission in Washington, D.C. to support local, regional, state and federal initiatives that allow the people of Ohio's Appalachian region to obtain economic, educational and community prosperity.
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Columbus, OH -- Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced that the Governor's Office of Appalachia (GOA) has teamed with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and the U.S. Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Institute in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to support the Summer Math-Science-Technology Institute, a two-week program for high school students and teachers that provides hands-on learning experiences focusing on math, science and technology. The residential program is allowing seven students and three teachers from Ohio's Appalachian region to work side-by-side with ORNL research scientists exploring practical uses of math and science principals.
"This program provides an outstanding opportunity for students to explore the fields of math, science and technology - disciplines that require the skills necessary for success in the advanced jobs of the future," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "The program also encourages students in the State's Appalachian region to continue to further their education beyond high school, which is critical to boosting their job prospects and incomes when they enter the workforce. I congratulate each student selected to participate and thank the teachers for their commitment to helping students reach their fullest potential."
The program is designed for middle-tier students who show potential and may consider college as a result of this experience. Under the guidance of ORNL research scientists, high school students and teachers participate in hands-on, multi-research projects in math, science and technology. Students spend time in research laboratories and take field trips to nearby industries, universities and museums. All major expenses, including meals, lodging and transportation to and from home, are paid in full for students and teachers chosen to participate.
Students and teachers selected to participate include:
The GOA solicited applications in January. Participants leave for Tennessee tomorrow and will return on July 20.
The Oak Ridge National Laboratory is one of the largest U.S. Department of Energy research facilities in the United States and is located approximately 20 miles northwest of Knoxville, Tennessee.
The Governor's Office of Appalachia is a division of the Department of Development and represents the interests of the 29 counties comprising East Central, Southeast and Southern Ohio. The GOA works on behalf of the Appalachian Regional Commission in Washington, D.C. to support local, regional, state and federal initiatives that allow the people of Ohio's Appalachian region to obtain economic, educational and community prosperity.
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Columbus, Ohio – Severe summer weather hazards comes in many different forms, including severe storms, lightning, extreme heat, drought, flooding and more. All Ohioans are at risk, but some older residents and people with disabilities may be more at risk and less able to prepare or react. The Ohio Department of Aging encourages residents and community leaders to check on them before, during and after severe weather.
"Harsh summer conditions can force many people to isolate themselves – often unsafely – in their homes," said Barbara E. Riley, Director of the Department of Aging. "Not only does this prevent them from getting the comfort, food and care they need, it can also lead to feelings of isolation and helplessness. A simple, short visit can alleviate fears and identify areas where an individual may need help."
Things to check when you visit:
"For most of us, summer is a time of celebration and activity," added Riley. "By working together, across generations, we can keep our communities safe and strong and allow all of our neighbors to enjoy this time."
If help is needed, assistance - including access to home cooling assistance - may be available from your Area Agency on Aging, which provides information and referral to many direct services, such as home repair, telephone reassurance, home-delivered meals and more. Call toll-free 1-866-243-5678 to be connected to the agency serving your community.
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit aging.ohio.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Senior citizens and disabled Ohioans may now apply with their local county auditor to lower the size of the property tax bills on their home through the newly-expanded Homestead Exemption.
The Homestead Exemption expansion – signed into law on Saturday by Governor Ted Strickland as part of Ohio's two-year operating budget – will allow senior citizen homeowners and permanently and totally disabled homeowners, regardless of income, to shield $25,000 of the market value of their home from property taxes. The exemption is also available for manufactured home taxes.
Previously, eligibility for the Homestead Exemption was restricted through a complex income-based formula that disqualified most senior citizens. For example, during the 2006 tax year, any senior citizen or disabled Ohioan with household income of more than $26,200 per year could not qualify for the savings.
The Homestead Exemption changes signed into law on Saturday are expected to increase the number of Ohioans who qualify from about 220,000 to 775,000. The legislation also does away with tiered benefits in favor of the flat, $25,000 exemption.
The amount of savings will vary from community to community based on local tax rates, but should average about $400 per newly qualifying homeowner.
The catch? H