The Miami County Commissioners serve as the county’s primary governing body, responsible for overseeing budgets, county operations, and essential public services. This Board of County Commissioners ensures that decisions affecting infrastructure, public safety, zoning, and community development reflect the needs of residents, providing transparency and accountability in Miami County’s government. By managing contracts, tax levies, and strategic planning, the commissioners safeguard fiscal stability while supporting effective local governance. Their work also guides county policy on water and sewer districts, solid waste management, and public works projects, directly impacting the quality of life for all residents. Citizens can engage with the board through scheduled board meetings, public hearings, and official communications, ensuring a participatory and responsive government.
Comprising three elected officials, the board works collaboratively to manage county finances, maintain public facilities, and supervise departments such as Human Resources, Job and Family Services, and Emergency Management. Commissioners exercise statutory powers under Ohio law, making decisions on annexations, road petitions, and county zoning applications. Information related to financial oversight, property records, and fiscal reporting is often accessed through the Official Miami County Auditor Site, which serves as a key public reference for residents seeking authoritative county data. By coordinating with other elected officials and county offices, the Commissioners ensure that essential services operate efficiently, from emergency response to public transit. Their oversight includes critical county operations, strategic development initiatives, and administrative management, aligning daily activities with long-term county goals while promoting transparency and accountability across the county.
Who Are the Miami County Commissioners?
The Miami County Commissioners are the elected leaders responsible for managing county operations, budgets, and public services. They work together to ensure the county runs efficiently and serves the needs of its residents. Miami County is governed by a three-member Board of Commissioners, each elected at large to serve a four-year term. These officials play a central role in local governance, overseeing county facilities, public works, financial management, and the administration of essential county offices.
Commissioner Profiles
The Board of Miami County Commissioners consists of three dedicated leaders who represent the county and make decisions impacting every resident:
- Wade H. Westfall – President
Wade Westfall serves as the President of the board. He is responsible for guiding meetings, setting priorities, and coordinating initiatives across county departments. With experience in local governance and public administration, he ensures policies reflect community needs. - Gregory A. Simmons – Vice President
Gregory Simmons acts as Vice President, supporting the President and managing specific county programs. His role involves financial oversight, infrastructure projects, and collaboration with other elected officials. Simmons brings years of experience in civic service and strategic planning. - Ted S. Mercer – Member
Ted Mercer serves as a board member, contributing to county policy decisions and participating in key committees. He focuses on public works, community engagement, and ensuring transparency in governance. Mercer’s expertise supports balanced decision-making across all county functions.
Each commissioner brings unique skills and professional backgrounds that strengthen Miami County’s leadership. Together, they oversee county departments such as Animal Shelter, Emergency Management, Sanitary Engineering, and Job and Family Services, ensuring efficient delivery of services to residents.
How Commissioners Are Elected & Their Terms
Miami County Commissioners are elected at large, meaning they represent the entire county rather than individual districts. Elections occur every four years, and candidates must meet state eligibility requirements. This system allows residents from all areas of Miami County to have a say in leadership, promoting equitable representation. The four-year term provides stability, allowing commissioners to plan long-term projects and maintain consistent management of county operations. During their tenure, commissioners are expected to balance fiscal responsibility with the delivery of public services, collaborating with other elected officials and community stakeholders.
Points about elections and terms:
- Elected at large by all county voters
- Serve four-year terms
- Responsible for county-wide leadership and oversight
- Eligible for re-election to continue serving the community
This structure ensures that all areas of Miami County have equal representation in decisions affecting infrastructure, public safety, health services, and county finances.
Role Summary in Local Government
Miami County Commissioners function as the primary decision-making body for county government, providing leadership and accountability for local operations. Their responsibilities include:
- Financial Management: Preparing the county budget, levying taxes, issuing bonds, and allocating funds to departments.
- Management of County Facilities: Maintaining public buildings, parks, and infrastructure to serve residents efficiently.
- Oversight of County Departments: Supervising offices like Human Resources, Transit, and the Department of Development to ensure smooth operations.
- Policy & Public Decisions: Hearing annexations, zoning requests, drainage petitions, and other matters affecting county residents.
By exercising their statutory powers, the board ensures local governance functions fairly, transparently, and efficiently. Commissioners also serve as liaisons between citizens and county offices, helping residents navigate services and understand government operations.
The board promotes civic engagement by:
- Holding regular public meetings every Tuesday and Thursday
- Publishing agendas and meeting minutes
- Providing opportunities for residents to comment on proposed projects and policies
The Miami County Commissioners combine leadership, experience, and a commitment to public service, ensuring that county governance aligns with the needs of its community. Their work impacts everything from public safety and infrastructure to social services and economic development, making them a central part of Miami County life.
Core Responsibilities of the Miami County Commissioners
The Miami County Commissioners oversee a wide range of county operations, making key decisions that affect local governance and public services. Their responsibilities span financial management, facilities oversight, public works, legal duties, and supervision of county offices.
Financial & Budget Management
One of the main responsibilities of the Miami County Commissioners is managing the county’s finances. They prepare budgets, approve appropriations, levy taxes, and authorize bonds and contracts. These financial decisions ensure that county programs and services operate smoothly and efficiently. The board works closely with the Auditor and other county officials to track revenues and expenditures. They review funding requests from various departments and determine how resources are allocated to meet the community’s needs. By managing these budgets, the commissioners directly influence public services such as roads, emergency management, and social programs.
Financial responsibilities include:
- Budget Preparation: Drafting and approving the annual county budget.
- Appropriations: Allocating funds to departments and projects.
- Taxes and Levies: Setting local taxes in accordance with Ohio law.
- Bonds & Contracts: Approving borrowing and contracts for public works.
These decisions play a critical role in county government services, ensuring residents have access to well-funded facilities, roads, and essential programs.
Facilities & Personnel Administration
In addition to managing finances, the board oversees county facilities and personnel. This includes maintaining buildings such as courthouses, administrative offices, and public service centers. They also supervise human resources functions, including hiring policies, employee benefits, and workplace regulations. The commissioners coordinate with department heads to ensure that facilities remain safe, functional, and accessible. They also address staffing needs, making certain that county departments have the personnel required to deliver public services efficiently.
Highlights of responsibilities:
- Facilities Oversight: Maintaining and improving county-owned buildings.
- Human Resources: Managing staff policies, recruitment, and employee welfare.
- Interdepartmental Coordination: Collaborating with department heads to meet operational goals.
By overseeing these areas, the commissioners contribute to the smooth running of the county government infrastructure, which directly impacts residents’ daily interactions with local services.
Public Works & Services Decisions
The commissioners are also responsible for decisions affecting public works and essential services. They approve road projects, drainage improvements, sewer and water districts, and solid waste disposal programs. These actions ensure safe transportation routes, proper sanitation, and environmental compliance across the county. Decisions regarding zoning approvals, infrastructure projects, and petitions often involve public hearings, allowing residents to provide input. This ensures that public works projects meet community needs while complying with Ohio law.
Some examples of public works responsibilities:
- Road Construction & Maintenance: Approving projects and repairs for county roads.
- Drainage & Sewer Districts: Managing petitions and improvements to prevent flooding and maintain sanitation.
- Solid Waste Management: Ensuring trash collection and disposal meet regulations.
- Water & Sewer Improvements: Planning and funding essential utility infrastructure.
By making these decisions, the commissioners shape the delivery of county government services that affect daily life and community development.
Legal and Statutory Duties
Miami County Commissioners hold legal and statutory powers granted under the Ohio Revised Code, particularly Chapter 307. They hear annexations, zoning petitions, and hold public hearings to ensure county actions comply with state law.
The board’s legal duties include:
- Annexation Requests: Approving or denying requests to adjust municipal boundaries.
- Zoning Petitions: Reviewing proposed changes and ensuring alignment with county planning.
- Public Hearings: Providing transparency and allowing public participation in decision-making.
These statutory powers give the commissioners authority to influence county development, land use, and community planning. By fulfilling these duties, they uphold local governance standards and ensure that decisions are legally compliant and in the public interest.
Governance of County Offices
The board is directly responsible for overseeing several county offices, ensuring they operate effectively and serve the community. Some of the offices under the commissioners’ supervision include:
- Animal Shelter: Managing operations, funding, and animal welfare programs.
- Emergency Management Agency: Coordinating disaster preparedness and response.
- Sanitary Engineering: Maintaining water and sewer systems.
- Department of Development: Supporting community and economic development projects.
- Human Resources & Facilities Maintenance: Overseeing personnel policies and county infrastructure.
By supervising these offices, the commissioners guarantee that county decisions translate into actionable programs and services for residents. Their guidance ensures these departments deliver essential services while maintaining compliance with county policies and Ohio law.
Public Meetings & How Residents Can Get Involved
Residents of Miami County can attend board meetings to stay informed and share their input on county decisions. The Board of Commissioners welcomes public participation at scheduled sessions, offering clear opportunities for civic engagement.
Meeting Location & Schedule
All public sessions are held in the Commissioners’ Hearing Room on the first floor of the Safety Building, 201 West Main Street, Troy, OH 45373. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, providing flexibility for residents to plan their visits.
The board maintains a regular schedule for public sessions:
- General Sessions: Every Tuesday at 9:00 AM and Thursday at 1:30 PM
- Work Sessions: Every Thursday at 9:00 AM
- Special Meetings: Scheduled as needed, announced at least 24 hours in advance according to the Ohio Revised Code
This consistent schedule allows residents to plan attendance and ensures transparency in county governance. Attending these sessions gives a firsthand look at how commissioners make decisions affecting local services and community projects.
Types of Meetings
Miami County Commissioners hold three main types of meetings:
- General Sessions: Cover major decisions, financial matters, budget approvals, and county policy updates.
- Work Sessions: Focus on internal planning, departmental updates, and preparatory discussions before formal decisions.
- Special Meetings: Occur only when urgent or unexpected matters arise, such as emergency funding or rapid-response projects.
Each type of meeting serves a distinct purpose and provides residents with multiple ways to engage. Civic participation is encouraged during any session, with the opportunity to observe deliberations and contribute feedback when allowed.
How to Attend & Participate
Residents interested in attending can follow these practical steps:
- Arrive early: Seats fill quickly, especially during budget or public hearing discussions.
- Sign up if needed: Some meetings may require registration for speaking or public comment periods.
- Observe decorum: Meetings follow formal procedures; respectful questions and comments are welcomed.
- Bring materials: Documents or prepared statements support clear communication with commissioners.
Participating in board meetings gives residents insight into county government processes and the decisions that shape public services. Even attending as an observer provides context for how policies on roads, drainage, zoning, and other civic matters are implemented.
Agenda & Minutes Access
Transparency is central to Miami County governance. Agendas and meeting minutes are made publicly available through the Agenda Center. Residents can:
- View upcoming agendas to know what topics will be discussed.
- Review past meeting minutes to track decisions and county actions.
- Follow updates on projects affecting infrastructure, zoning, and county services.
Using these resources helps residents stay connected to board meetings, maintain awareness of county operations, and support informed community involvement. The Agenda Center also allows easy navigation of documents by date or topic, streamlining access to official records.
Services & County Functions Overseen by the Board
The Miami County Commissioners oversee a variety of county services that ensure the community runs smoothly and safely, covering public welfare, infrastructure, and essential administrative functions that directly affect residents’ daily lives. By supervising these departments, the commissioners help guarantee consistent service delivery and make decisions that benefit the community as a whole.
Animal Shelter
The Animal Shelter provides care and adoption services for lost or abandoned animals while enforcing local pet licensing and vaccination requirements. Staff manage intake, medical care, and adoptions, educate the public on responsible pet ownership, and handle animal control issues, helping maintain safety and welfare for both residents and animals.
Emergency Management
Miami County’s Emergency Management Agency coordinates planning, response, and recovery for natural disasters, severe weather, and other emergencies. The commissioners ensure the department maintains public alert systems, trains first responders, and implements risk mitigation strategies, keeping residents informed, safe, and prepared for any emergency.
Human Resources
The Human Resources department manages county employment, benefits, training, and personnel policies under the commissioners’ oversight. HR recruits and onboards employees, administers benefits, enforces employment laws, and develops workforce training programs, ensuring a skilled, accountable, and motivated county staff that supports efficient service delivery.
Job & Family Services
The Department of Job and Family Services delivers programs that support families, children, and individuals in need, including child protection, foster care, financial assistance, unemployment benefits, food support, and workforce development. Commissioners supervise the department to ensure resources are delivered effectively, improving residents’ quality of life and offering stability to the community.
Transit & Sanitary Engineering
The Transit department provides reliable transportation services, while the Sanitary Engineering office manages water, sewer, and waste systems for public health and environmental safety. Commissioners monitor both departments to ensure safe, accessible transit, well-maintained infrastructure, and compliance with health standards, helping residents travel efficiently while protecting the community’s resources.
Contact & Office Information
The Miami County Commissioners’ office can be reached easily by phone, email, or in person at the Safety Building in Troy, Ohio. Residents can also access staff contact details and follow official updates through social media channels.
The Miami County Commissioners’ office operates Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The office is located on the first floor of the Safety Building at 201 West Main Street, Troy, OH 45373. For phone inquiries, the main line is 937-440-5910, and fax correspondence can be sent to 937-440-5911. Email communication with specific staff members is available through the staff directory on the official county website, ensuring residents reach the appropriate department quickly.
Staff Directory & Key Contacts
The office maintains a comprehensive staff directory listing commissioners, administrative staff, and departmental contacts. This directory allows residents to connect with the right personnel for matters involving budgets, county services, public works, or general inquiries.
Highlighted roles include:
- Wade H. Westfall, President – oversees board operations and public meetings.
- Gregory A. Simmons, Vice President – manages administrative coordination and county projects.
- Ted S. Mercer, Member – focuses on community programs and policy initiatives.
Other staff members support areas such as emergency management, facilities, human resources, and transit operations, providing clear points of contact for residents seeking assistance.
FAQs – About Miami County Commissioners
Residents often have questions about the role, responsibilities, and activities of the Miami County Commissioners. This FAQ section provides clear answers about elections, meetings, powers, services, and how citizens can stay involved with local government.
What do county commissioners do?
County commissioners oversee Miami County’s daily operations, managing budgets, county facilities, and public services. They prepare and approve the county budget, levy taxes, and authorize public works projects. Commissioners also handle zoning, annexations, and petitions that affect the community. They coordinate with other elected officials to ensure county operations comply with Ohio law. Their role ensures residents receive efficient local governance and essential services.
How are Miami County Commissioners elected?
Miami County Commissioners are elected at large by voters across the county, with each serving a four-year term. Elections occur during the general election cycle, and the board elects a president and vice president annually. Staggered terms maintain continuity in leadership. Candidates must meet Ohio’s eligibility requirements, including residency, age, and citizenship. This election process ensures accountability and representation for all residents.
How can I attend a commissioner’s meeting?
Residents can attend meetings in person at the Safety Building or review materials online. General sessions are held every Tuesday at 9:00 AM and Thursday at 1:30 PM, while work sessions occuron Thursday at 9:00 AM. Special meetings are announced at least 24 hours in advance. Public comment periods allow citizens to address the board. Attending meetings provides insight into county projects, budgets, and local governance decisions.
What powers do the commissioners have under Ohio law?
Miami County Commissioners exercise powers granted by the Ohio Revised Code, Chapter 307. They approve budgets, levy taxes, issue bonds, and oversee public works projects. Commissioners can establish water and sewer districts, authorize drainage improvements, and hear zoning or annexation petitions. They also supervise county facilities and offices like Human Resources and Sanitary Engineering. These powers allow the board to manage county operations effectively while complying with state law.
When are meetings held?
Regular meetings ensure consistent oversight of county activities. General sessions occur every Tuesday at 9:00 AM and Thursday at 1:30 PM, and work sessions are every Thursday at 9:00 AM. Special meetings are scheduled as needed with 24-hour notice. Meetings take place in the Commissioners’ Hearing Room on the first floor of the Safety Building. Agendas and minutes are available online to keep residents informed about county governance.