Ken Wilson

Ken Wilson is the Franklin County Administrator

Meet OCMA Board Member Kenneth Wilson

Name: Kenneth Wilson

Position: County Administrator

Organization: Franklin County

Appointed to the Board: July 2024

What motivates your service to OCMA?

I am motivated to serve within the Ohio County City Management Association by a number of things. I am committed to advancing the professional management of local governments in any way that I can. I support OCMA’s efforts to promote professional excellence and improve county government management.

What do you hope to accomplish in your capacity with OCMA?

As a member of the OCMA Board of Directors, I hope to encourage more local government members to get involved in activities sponsored by the organization. Additionally, I want to advocate for policies that improve the quality of services provided to the residents we serve in local government.

I hope to strengthen my professional network of peers in local government and learn additional best practices. I also want to promote continuing professional development and amplify essential work performed.

What inspired you to enter local government?

My original motivation to enter local government was a desire to help develop public policies that empower people and improve the quality of life of individuals served by local government. Graduate school further fueled my desire to be a change agent in local government.

What do you enjoy the most about your role?

I enjoy the diversity of the work done in public administration and helping improve economic mobility in Franklin County and the state at large.

What project(s) are you most proud of?

I have worked on several economic development projects, including affordable housing projects, the development of Huntington Park, Franklin County Forensic Science Center, Franklin County One Door, Talk of the County Podcast, and workforce development programs.

What are the most significant challenges facing County Administrators in the state today?

Dealing with ever-changing Federal and State policies

Dealing with challenging policy issues, such as a lack of affordable child care and poverty among senior residents and children

Communities facing a lack of affordable/sustainable housing

What is the role of a County Administrator in upholding the public’s trust in local government?

Simply serving in a humble way and with integrity.

How are cities shaping the future of Ohio?

Cities are the cornerstones of the State of Ohio; they will shape how residents live, work, and play in the future. Cities will continue to serve as the civil and cultural hubs for the State of Ohio