The Franklin County Commissioners today announced the appointment of Orvell Johns as the new director to oversee the Office on Aging. Mr. Johns will take over the position, which pays $99,840 annually, beginning Monday, June 8th.
Through diverse programming, inclusive planning and individualized services, the Office on Aging supports older adults, dependent adults as well as family members by providing resources that ensure safe and healthy environments and a responsive community to improve independent living among the county’s aging residents.
The Office on Aging is the county’s first-line of defense for aging residents by providing programing for health and medical care, food and nutrition, housing security as well as supportive services for things like employment, legal aide, volunteer opportunities, caregiver consultation, senior fitness centers, refugee and interpretive communication.
“Office on Aging is one of the most important agencies in the county,” said Board of Commissioners President John O’Grady. “It’s a big job that requires strong leadership, and we have every confidence in Orvell.”
Mr. Johns brings a proven track record of experience in state and county government leading executives and senior staff to achieve organizational success. His solid background and experience in finance, human resources, and information technology is reflected in his most recent position as the Director for the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations and Juvenile Branches from 2014 to 2019. Other posts he has held include Director of the Center for Public Investment Management at the State Treasurer’s office, Lead Banker for government and public sector banking at J.P. Morgan Chase and Assistant Deputy Director with the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, Equal Opportunity Division between 2010 and 2014.
“Franklin County’s older adults deserve the support that help then age in place with dignity and independence,” said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “We look forward to Orvell bringing his experience and professionalism to lead this agency and its dedicated team of public servants.”
Franklin County Office on Aging has an annual budget of over $50 million, which is made up of funding from the senior services levy, the federal government, State of Ohio, and Franklin County. The agency provides “one-stop shopping” through the Senior Options program for people needing information, advocacy or access to a wide range of services including adult protective services that prevent, remedy and reduce situations that endanger vulnerable older adults.
“Since seniors are our most valuable community resource, it was critical we select an experienced, thoughtful, and visionary leader,” said Commissioner Kevin L. Boyce. “Orvell Johns will help write a blueprint for an age-friendly County that will serve our seniors at the highest level for generation to come.”
Office on Aging has close to 100 employees and operates from Memorial Hall at 280 East Broad Street, Room 300. More information about the Office of Aging and available resources can be found at officeonaging.franklincountyohio.gov.