Commissioner raises conflict-of-interest and transparency concerns over drug levy grants

Commissioner Stephen D. Hambley told the Medina County Board of Commissioners on May 12 that the Drug Advisory Committee’s grant process favors the drug task force and school resource officers and can mislead outside applicants.

Hambley said the levy’s stated three funding priorities — the drug task force, SROs, and other qualifying applications — have historically resulted in funding only the first two tiers because of limited resources. He cited the Lodi Police Department’s K-9 application as an example of an eligible request that did not receive funding under the committee’s Option 1 selections.

Hambley also expressed concern about the composition of the MCDAC board, observing that most members, with two exceptions, have direct financial interest in funding outcomes and that this creates an inherent conflict when evaluating applications. He supported developing a formal scoring matrix and a standardized application form for the next grant cycle to promote clarity and fairness.

Commissioner Aaron M. Harrison said he preferred keeping the third funding category available in case future savings free up resources, but acknowledged that, under current levy projections, additional funding for that tier is unlikely. The commissioners agreed transparency and candid communication with applicants should be priorities going forward.