Board of Developmental Disabilities wins state accreditation; Momentum Refresh mobile restrooms see wide county use

Stacy Malekar reported to the Medina County Board of Commissioners on Jan. 28 that the local Board of Developmental Disabilities received a three‑year state accreditation from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and unveiled its 2025–2027 strategic plan.

"In November, we received our 3 year state accreditation through the Department of Developmental Disabilities," Malekar said, noting the survey verifies compliance with the Ohio Revised Code and Medicaid rules and that surveyors interviewed families and individuals about services.

Malekar also reported success with a contracted mobile restroom service, Momentum Refresh, designed to provide accessible restroom facilities at public events. She said Momentum Refresh recorded 423 visitors in the past year, with 260 actual facility uses and 163 visits from people checking out the unit at events including the county fair, Taste of Wadsworth, Fall Fest and several local holiday events. The county holds a 2.5‑year contract with the vendor priced by event, Malekar said, and the board has three new members including a person with developmental disabilities who will represent people with lived experience on the board.

Why it matters: State accreditation confirms regulatory compliance for services to residents with developmental disabilities. The Momentum Refresh program expands accessibility at large public events and has been booked for multiple county happenings.

Ending: Malekar shared the board's strategic plan and invited commissioners to review it; she said she will provide copies to county leadership and noted continued collaboration with courts and neighboring counties on treatment foster care and other services.