Hamilton County, September 4, 2025
News Summary
A Hamilton County commissioner expressed regret over the handling of an audit that revealed major discrepancies in travel expense reimbursements. The audit, conducted by Auditor Chris McCullough, showed that commissioners were reimbursed a total of $9,603 for travel between their homes and commission meetings, raising concerns about taxpayer funds. Commissioner Gene-O Shipley publicly acknowledged his mistakes and submitted a check to address the discrepancies, while the commission voted to appoint a new chair in light of the findings. The situation emphasizes the need for improved transparency and accountability in government spending.
Hamilton County Commissioner Regrets Handling of Travel Expense Audit
A Hamilton County commissioner has publicly expressed regret regarding the handling of an audit that uncovered discrepancies in travel expense reimbursements. The audit, conducted by Hamilton County Auditor Chris McCullough, focused on the discretionary spending practices of the commissioners.
The audit revealed that until recently, commissioners were reimbursed for travel expenses between their homes and their weekly commission meetings. This has raised significant concerns about the use of taxpayer funds.
Commissioner Gene-O Shipley acknowledged the issue, indicating that he owes an apology to the commission for making the audit report public before it was discussed with fellow commissioners. In light of the findings, Shipley promptly submitted a check for $462 to the county auditor to address the discrepancies identified in the audit.
Shipley admitted that his response to the audit could have been more appropriate. The audit’s findings revealed that between July 2022 and the recent past, Hamilton County commissioners received a total of $9,603 in taxpayer money for travel reimbursements to and from the Courthouse.
Specifically, the audit indicated that in fiscal year 2023, commissioners received $3,173.68 for mileage reimbursement, while in fiscal year 2024, the amount increased to $3,667.59. The audit also pointed to additional questionable reimbursements, including $100 for photofinishing at Walgreens and $1,100 for hotel expenses.
During a commission meeting, Shipley confronted Auditor McCullough directly, reinforcing his previous statements that he owed the commissioners an apology. In response, McCullough defended his actions, noting that he had shared details of the audit with individual commissioners prior to its public release.
Following these developments, the commission voted unanimously to appoint Commissioner Ken Smith as the new chair, highlighting the need for leadership amid ongoing scrutiny of the commissioners’ financial practices. Notably, other commissioners have also faced criticism for questionable reimbursements, particularly Commissioner Warren Mackey, who has previously reported over $27,000 in questionable expenses.
The findings of the audit have stirred considerable concern about the management of taxpayer funds by the Hamilton County Commissioners, prompting calls for greater transparency and accountability. The commission’s actions in response to the audit will likely shape public perception moving forward as residents demand responsible use of public funds.
Background of the Situation
The audit highlighted a significant lack of oversight regarding discretionary spending among Hamilton County commissioners. While travel reimbursements for expenses related to commuting to commission meetings may seem commonplace, the findings have raised ethical questions regarding how these funds are used. The inquiry has prompted residents and officials alike to reevaluate the financial practices in place within the county government.
Conclusion
The scrutiny surrounding the Hamilton County Commissioners’ financial practices reflects broader concerns about governmental transparency and fiscal responsibility. Moving forward, it will be essential for the commissioners to implement higher standards of accountability to restore public trust and ensure judicious use of taxpayer resources.
FAQ
What did the Hamilton County audit reveal?
The audit revealed issues with travel expense reimbursements, including $9,603 in reimbursements to commissioners for travel to the Courthouse, along with additional questionable expenses.
What steps did Commissioner Gene-O Shipley take following the audit?
Commissioner Shipley expressed regret over the handling of the report, apologizing to the commission and submitting a check for $462 to the auditor.
How have the other commissioners responded to the audit findings?
Other commissioners faced scrutiny as well, with previous findings showing Commissioner Warren Mackey reported over $27,000 in questionable expenses.
Key Features of the Audit Findings
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Reimbursements (July 2022 – Recent) | $9,603 |
| Fiscal Year 2023 Mileage Reimbursements | $3,173.68 |
| Fiscal Year 2024 Mileage Reimbursements | $3,667.59 |
| Photofinishing Charges | $100 |
| Hotel Expenses | $1,100 |
| Questionable Expenses for Commissioner Mackey | Over $27,000 |
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Additional Resources
- News Channel 9: Hamilton County Commissioner Apologizes
- Google Search: Hamilton County Commissioner Audit
- Times Free Press: Hamilton County Commissioners Reimbursed
- Wikipedia: Hamilton County, Ohio
- Local 12: Ohio Alleges Money Mismanagement
- Google News: Hamilton County Audit 2023
- WDEF: Commissioners Upset Over Travel Expense Audit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Audit
- WCPO: Flaw in Lease Between Bengals & Hamilton County
- Google Scholar: Hamilton County Commissioners Audit
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