Shelby County, Ohio

05/14/2026

Welcome to Shelby County! We look forward to working with you!

By Kimberly Pistone

04/28/2026

Commissioners, Julie Ehemann, Mack Knupp and Bruce Metz presented a proclamation today recognizing April as Nation County Government Month. The 88 counties in Ohio deliver justice and public safety through courts, jail/sheriffs' office, 911 centers and emergency management.

https://youtu.be/tVkvzH5kD-8?si=4v-YpiEf2Azuo6jY

04/28/2026

As National County Government Month come to an end. We are spot-lighting our last employee, but not the least!! Please meet Emily O'Leary a Legal Analyst for the Shelby County Prosecutor's Office. We asked Emily a few questions about what a Legal Analyst does and here are her answers, so let's get to know Emily!

What are your main daily responsibilities as a Legal Analyst?

The main daily responsibilities for my particular role include monitoring pending felonies at the municipal level, processing felonies for common pleas court, preparing cases for grand jury, sending discovery to defense counsel, case research, assisting in trial preparation, and acting as a liaison with law-enforcement and other local agencies for the prosecuting attorney and assistant prosecuting attorneys. I also manage the prosecutor website and prepare news releases.

How do you feel your role supports the community?

The prosecutor’s office pursues complaints from law enforcement and handles all stages of litigation from adjudication through disposition and termination of the case, extending to appeals made to the 3rd District Court of Appeals, the Ohio Supreme Court, and the United States Supreme Court. The prosecutor’s office also provides legal support to county agencies. Our prosecuting attorneys handle a significant amount of diverse responsibilities through the different courts and for the different county agencies.

How would you describe the function of your department to a citizen?

This department handles all county criminal felony charges, county village misdemeanor charges, juvenile charges, child neglect, abuse, and dependency charges, village misdemeanor charges, civil issues pertinent to the county, and county agency legal needs.

How would you describe the function of your department to a citizen?

We work with many departments within the courthouse, including Victim Services who is affiliated with our office, the Clerks offices, and personnel at the various courts, and we work extensively with various law enforcement agencies as well as other county departments and agencies. We also work with other local community organizations who assist within the court system like New Choices and with other attorneys.

What is the biggest misunderstanding people have about your job?

I think the biggest misunderstanding people may have about our office is that we only handle criminal offenses, but we also serve as the legal advisor for county and town legal adviser for county and township officers, boards, commissions, as well as several other tax-supported county entities.

What interested you in working for the county?

I began in this position after a longtime staff member retired and have enjoyed many aspects of the job and have now been with the county in this position for six years. I value being able to work toward just resolutions for crime victims in our county.

What skills are most necessary to succeed in this job?

For this position, it is very helpful to have good writing skills, good interpersonal communication skills, good research skills, familiarity with the Ohio Revised Code, and a focus on detail.

Thank you Emily for all you do for Shelby County!

04/24/2026

April is National County Government Month and Shelby County is spot-lighting some of our employees. Please meet Amy Berning our Shelby County Auditor. We asked Amy a few questions about her job and this is what she shared with us.

1. What are you main daily responsibilities as a County Auditor? I oversee the Payroll for County employees, Accounts Payable and Receivable, Real Estate records, Real Estate Tax levies, Budgets of all 52 Local Government entities, and dog tags.

2. How do you feel your roll supports the community? My office guards taxpayer dollars and distributes the funds to support the 52 Local Government entities.

3. How would you describe the function of your department to a citizen? My office checks every bill that the County pays, to make sure it is for a proper public purpose. We also update property record information to make sure Real Estate taxes are charged correctly. I work with Local Government entities to reduce millage wherever we can, while making sure the services have the funding they need.
4. Which other department do you work with the most? The County Commissioners, County Treasurer, County Recorder, and Tax Map Department.

5. What is the biggest misunderstanding people have about your job? They think we audit businesses in the County, which is the job of the IRS. We oversee the budgets of all public entities like schools and villages, but only audit the property values for anywhere else.

6. What interested you in working for the county? The opportunity to help taxpayers by holding down Real Estate taxes as low as I can, within the laws of Ohio.

7. What skills are most necessary to succeed in this job? Being willing to stand up for what is right, and making the office a pleasant place for the public and the staff as well.

Thank you Amy for your dedicated service to the Shelby County community.

04/24/2026

Ohio State University Students to Present Shelby County Land Use Study

City and Regional Planning students from The Ohio State University’s Knowlton School are working with the Shelby County Regional Planning Commission to conduct a land use study for the County. Their work is part of the spring semester graduate level program. The team has been creating an up-to-date vision for the County, identifying existing conditions, economic trends, rural character zones and growth opportunities. A final presentation of ideas is scheduled for April 30th.

Space has been reserved at the Amos Public Library, for viewing of the presentation.
The library is located at 230 E North St, Sidney.
Please arrive by 5:45pm, the presentation will begin @ 6:00pm.
The presentation will be 30 minutes in length, Q &A time will follow.
RSVP is required for this event.
PLEASE RSVP to Angela Hamberg, Shelby County Regional Planning Commission
Phone: 937-498-7273
Email: [email protected]

Upon completion of the land use study, the recommendations will be taken under consideration by Regional Planning Commission, Township Zoning Boards, Township Trustees and County Commissioners.

The team includes nine graduate program students led by Ohio State University Associated Faculty member, Chad D. Gibson, AICP. In 2023, Darke County utilized Gibson’s graduate studio to update their 2001 land use strategy. The students’ work received a national award by the American Planning Association for best student project in the category of Small Town and Rural Planning.

04/21/2026

As we continue to spotlight our county employees for National County Government Month, please meet Tina Hooks, Director of Job and Family Services.

We asked Tina a few questions about what she does for Shelby County.

1. What are your main daily responsibilities as a Director for Job and Family Services?

Shelby County Department of Job and Family Services administers multiple program areas including cash, food, childcare, and Medicaid assistance, child and protective services, foster care and adoption services, adult protective services, child support, and workforce and employment services. Serving as the Director of this agency requires compliance with state and federal programs in all program areas, fiscal oversight of the county Job and Family Services budget, community collaboration with other public service agencies and serving under the County Commissioners.

2. How do you feel your roll supports the community?

Valuable resources are provided to the community to break cycles of poverty, strive for self-sufficiency in families, strengthen the workforce, improve long-term outcomes for children and seniors and support families in crisis.

3. How would you describe the function of your department to a citizen?

Individuals are faced with difficult times in their own families or have friends or family members who need assistance. Job and Family Services is the place to turn when someone in the county needs help with basic needs such as food, healthcare, safety, or finding a job.

4. Which other department do you work with the most?

Since our agency has multiple departments under one roof, we collaborate with many different departments on an ongoing basis. Some of these agencies include the local court systems, law enforcement, Shelby County Board of Developmental Disabilities, CASA, and Family and Children First.

5. What is the biggest misunderstanding people have about your job?

One of the biggest misunderstandings that we see often daily is that our agency issues unemployment benefits. Although unemployment benefits are issued through Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, those benefits are not issued from our local agency.

6. What interested you in working for the county?

When I took my first job for the county, I had no idea that the job would turn into a lifelong career for me. Working in the community that I grew up in has been a positive experience for me. I have enjoyed witnessing success stories within the community and how some families can overcome some temporary setbacks in life.

7. What skills are most necessary to succeed in this job?

Organization, patience, flexibility, and attention to detail are some key attributes to be successful. Every day is different, and you have to expect the unexpected.

Thank you Tina for all you do for Shelby County Community.

04/16/2026

April is National County Government Month and Shelby County is spotlighting our wonderful employees all month long. Please meet Jenni Wright, Admission's Coordinator at Fair Haven Retirement Facility.

We asked Jenni a few questions on what she does at Fair Haven.

1. What are your main daily responsibilities as an Admission’s Coordinator?

As an Admission’s Coordinator I work with individuals, as well as hospitals and other healthcare providers to facilitate admissions to Fair Haven. I manage the admission process to include obtaining medical records for review, verifying insurance/eligibility as well as room availability. I also conduct facility tours and facilitate resident/family care conferences.

2. How do you feel your role supports the community?

My role supports the community by acting as the liaison between healthcare providers, families and our facility to assist with a smooth transition so our community can receive the necessary care services they need.

3. How would you describe the function of your department to a citizen?

The Admission’s Coordinator works with individuals and their families to organize admission to Fair Haven. We are the main point of contact for families to discuss availability and appropriateness of admissions.

4. Which other department do you work with the most?

While we do work with The Department of Job and Family Services at times, the Admission’s Coordinator also works with hospitals and other healthcare providers both locally and more regionally.

5. What is the biggest misunderstanding people have about your job?

The biggest misunderstanding of the Admission’s Coordinator is that we only handle paperwork the day of admission. In reality, we are actively working with families and other healthcare providers, days leading up to admission. We do continued follow-up to assure continued satisfaction. Time is also spent outside of the office attending events and maintaining relationships with other providers.

6. What interested you in working for the county?

I started working for the County at Fair Haven while I was still in High School. They were able to accommodate my schedule between school and extra-curricular’s. I started in our nursing department as a Resident Assistant and was then able to attend classes to become a State Tested Nursing Assistant. Since then, I have moved into the Social Services Department as the Admissions Coordinator and have been with the county for 26 years.

7. What skills are most necessary to succeed in this job?

As an Admissions Coordinator it’s important to have strong communication, organizational and time management skills as well as knowledge of insurance and healthcare regulations. Being proficient in electronic medical records systems and maintaining confidential medical records is essential. It’s also important to have patience and empathy as this can be a difficult time for a person and their family.

Thank you Jenni for all you do for Shelby County, Ohio and Fair Haven.

04/15/2026

We are celebrating National County Government Month in April and are spotlighting some of our wonderful employees who serve this community.

Please meet Kristi Anthony, Manager/Deputy Clerk, in the Legal Office of the Common Pleas Clerk of Courts.

What are your main responsibilities as a Legal Office Manager/Deputy Clerk at the Legal Office of the Common Pleas Clerk of Courts?

As the Legal Office Manager/Deputy Clerk, I assist Michele K. Mumford, the Clerk of Courts, by overseeing the day-to-day legal office operations, making sure court filings are processed correctly and on time, and supervising staff workflow. I also assist the public, handle billing and fee collection, and ensure court records are retained and easily accessible online and in office. Visit the Clerk’s website for a public records search at https://www.co.shelby.oh.us/224/Search-Public-Records-Online.

How do you feel your role supports the community?

My role supports the community by keeping court records accurate, accessible, and processed on time so people can navigate the legal system more easily. By providing reliable service, handling court filings and fees properly, and maintaining confidentiality, it helps build trust in the court system and ensures cases move forward fairly and smoothly.

How would you describe the function of your department to a citizen?

The Clerk of Courts Legal Office is the central part of the court system that manages and maintains all court records and filings for civil, criminal, and domestic cases. It also issues jury summons and legal documents like subpoenas and warrants and processes appeals. Overall, it helps keep the court system organized, accurate, and running smoothly for the public and the courts.

Which other department do you work with the most?

The Clerk of Courts Legal Office works most closely with the Common Pleas Court and Domestic Relations Court. It also coordinates regularly with Adult Probation, the Sheriff’s Department, and Victim Services.

What is the biggest misunderstanding people have about your job?

The biggest misunderstanding is that staff in our office can give out forms or tell people how to handle their cases. We do not provide forms and we cannot give legal advice—we provide access to records, process filings, and share general court information while keeping everything accurate and organized.

What interested you in working for the county?

I studied for a career as a paralegal and worked at a private law firm for 15 years. I realized I could continue my career in the legal field outside of the private sector. The benefits and stability of county government stood out to me, and I’ve now been with the county for 8 years.

What skills are most necessary to succeed in this job?

We handle matters that impact people’s lives every day, and we are accountable for the quality of our own work. Strong attention to detail, organization, and accuracy in handling court records. Maintain professionalism, respect, and approachability with the public during their most difficult times. Communicate effectively with law enforcement, judges, attorneys, and court staff while working efficiently, maintaining confidentiality, and following court procedures.

04/10/2026

https://www.naco.org/wearecounties

From urban to rural, large to small, America’s 3,069 counties, parishes and boroughs keep our communities healthy, vibrant and safe. We Are Counties highlights the essential role counties play across every part of community life.

04/09/2026

We are celebrating National County Government Month during April and spotlighting some of our wonderful employees. Meet Taylor Vondenhuevel, Deputy Recorder for Shelby County Recorder's Office.

We asked Taylor a few question about what she does for Shelby County and here are her answers.

1. What are your main daily responsibilities as a Deputy Recorder?

As a Deputy Recorder, my main responsibilities include receiving and recording documents in a timely fashion, indexing those documents to keep records accurate and up to date, and assisting the public with using county records for various real estate searches.

2. How do you feel your role supports the community?

By maintaining accurate and up to date records, we provide a reliable source for the public, attorneys, historians, genealogists, and title examiners to examine property records efficiently. These records play a critical role in identifying potential title issues and help with confirming clear property ownership. This allows individuals to then confidently purchase real estate in our county and secure financing when needed.

3. How would you describe the function of your department to a citizen?

Our department is responsible for maintaining complete, permanent, and accessible land records. These records are essential for establishing property ownership and tracking liens or other claims against a property. We update records throughout the day to help ensure the public has access to the most current information.

4. Which other department do you work with the most?

The Recorder’s office works closely with the Tax Map Department and Auditor’s office. All real estate transfers must first be approved by those offices before they can officially be put on record in our office.

5. What is the biggest misunderstanding people have about your job?

A common misunderstanding is that we prepare legal documents in our office or provide forms for real estate transfers. In reality, all documents must be prepared and completed outside of our office before they are submitted to us for recording.

6. What interested you in working for the county?

I was initially drawn to the county because of the work schedule. In my previous position, I worked nights and weekends, which was challenging as a working parent. This role provides a more consistent schedule, allowing for a better work-life balance.

7. What skills are most necessary to succeed in this job?

Strong time management, adaptability and interpersonal skills are essential. Working with the public requires the ability to communicate effectively with anyone who might come to our office. Since document volume can vary throughout the day, it’s also important to stay organized, prioritize tasks, and maintain efficiency to ensure all records are processed accurately and timely.

Shelby County would like to thank Taylor for her dedication to our community.

04/09/2026

Applications are OPEN for the 2026 Ohio Counties Scholarship!
Since 2023, the CCAO Research and Educational Foundation has invested $30,000 in 15 young leaders across 14 Ohio counties — helping prepare the next generation of public servants.
🎓 Five scholarships will be awarded.
🗓️ Deadline to apply: May 1
📄 Download the application at CCAO.org/foundation
Know a future leader? Please share and help spread the word!

📣 Applications are OPEN for the 2026 Ohio Counties Scholarship!

Since 2023, the CCAO Research and Educational Foundation has invested $30,000 in 15 young leaders across 14 Ohio counties — helping prepare the next generation of public servants.

🎓 Five scholarships will be awarded.
🗓️ Deadline to apply: May 1
📄 Download the application at CCAO.org/foundation

Know a future leader? Please share and help spread the word!