Ohio Administrative Code Title 107 - Governor's Residence Advisory Commission
Ohio Administrative Code Title 107 – Governor's Residence Advisory Commission
Title 107 of the Ohio Administrative Code pertains to the Governor's Residence Advisory Commission (GRAC). This Commission is a part of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services and is responsible for advising the Governor of Ohio on matters related to the Governor’s Residence, its upkeep, operations, and the appropriate use of the state-owned facility. The Governor’s Residence serves as the official home of the sitting Governor and is also used for ceremonial, official, and social functions. The regulations within Title 107 provide the framework for how the Governor’s Residence is managed, maintained, and used.
1. Purpose of the Governor's Residence Advisory Commission
Advisory Role: The primary role of the Governor’s Residence Advisory Commission is to provide recommendations and advice to the Governor regarding the maintenance, preservation, and improvements to the Governor's Residence. The Commission helps ensure that the residence remains a suitable home for the Governor and a symbol of the state's traditions and governance.
Facilitating Events and Functions: The Commission may assist in planning and managing various functions and events that take place at the Governor's Residence, including official state functions, diplomatic visits, and other ceremonial occasions.
Preservation of the Residence: Another important responsibility is to help preserve the historical and architectural integrity of the Governor’s Residence, ensuring it remains an important part of Ohio’s history.
2. Composition and Membership of the Commission
Members: The Governor's Residence Advisory Commission is typically made up of a diverse group of individuals appointed by the Governor. The composition may include state officials, historians, architects, and other individuals with expertise in areas such as interior design, historic preservation, or public relations.
Appointments: The Governor appoints members to the Commission, and the terms of office may vary. These appointments ensure that the Commission has a range of expertise to address the various needs and concerns related to the residence.
Leadership: The Commission may have a designated chairperson and other officers who lead meetings and coordinate activities. The chairperson typically facilitates discussions and represents the Commission in interactions with the Governor’s Office.
3. Duties and Responsibilities
Residence Design and Maintenance: One of the key duties of the Commission is to advise on the design, renovation, and maintenance of the Governor’s Residence. This includes overseeing any changes or updates to the structure and grounds of the residence, ensuring that it meets the functional needs of the Governor while preserving its historical value.
Interior Decor and Furnishings: The Commission may provide input on the interior decoration and furnishings of the Governor’s Residence, ensuring that the space reflects the dignity of the office and maintains Ohio’s cultural heritage. This could involve recommending new furniture, artwork, or decorative elements for the residence.
Fundraising for Improvements: In some cases, the Commission may be tasked with raising funds for capital improvements or special projects at the residence. This could involve organizing fundraising campaigns or seeking donations from private individuals, corporations, or philanthropic organizations.
Event Planning and Hosting: The Commission may play a role in planning and hosting events at the residence, including receptions, dinners, and other official gatherings. These events often serve as opportunities for the Governor to engage with dignitaries, state officials, and the public.
Public Education: The Commission may assist in educating the public about the history and significance of the Governor’s Residence. This could include creating educational materials, hosting tours, or organizing public outreach activities that highlight the residence’s role in Ohio’s history.
4. Operations and Funding
Budget Oversight: The Commission may assist in reviewing and recommending the budget for the operation and maintenance of the Governor’s Residence. This budget includes funds for repairs, upgrades, utilities, staffing, and event hosting.
Private Contributions: As part of its responsibilities, the Commission may facilitate or encourage private donations to support the upkeep of the residence. These funds may be used for specific restoration projects, improvements to the grounds, or the purchase of new furnishings or artwork.
Public and Private Partnerships: The Commission may also explore partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and private citizens to ensure the Governor’s Residence is properly maintained and preserved.
5. Use of the Governor's Residence
Official Functions: The Governor’s Residence is used to host a variety of official functions, such as state dinners, meetings with dignitaries, and public events. The Commission helps advise on the appropriate use of the residence for these events and ensures that the residence remains a suitable venue for Ohio’s state affairs.
Access and Use for Special Events: The Governor’s Residence may also be used for ceremonial purposes or special events. The Commission helps determine which events are appropriate for hosting at the residence and ensures that the space is used in a way that reflects the dignity of the Governor’s office.
Public Tours: In some instances, the Commission may facilitate public tours of the residence, allowing Ohioans and visitors to learn more about the history and architecture of the home, as well as its role in state government.
Residency of the Governor: While the residence is primarily used for official functions, it also serves as the primary residence for the sitting Governor and their family. The Commission advises on issues related to the living conditions within the residence, ensuring it remains comfortable and functional for the Governor's family while maintaining its public role.
6. Historical Preservation
Architectural Integrity: The Governor’s Residence is often a historical building with architectural significance. The Commission plays a key role in ensuring that any changes made to the residence do not compromise its historical integrity. They may recommend preservation techniques and work with historians or preservationists to maintain the building’s character.
Cultural Heritage: The Commission helps preserve the cultural heritage of the residence, which may include preserving original furniture, artwork, and decorations. The residence is an important symbol of Ohio’s history, and the Commission ensures it is treated as a cultural landmark.
7. Rules and Regulations
Commission Meetings: The Commission holds regular meetings to discuss the maintenance and use of the Governor’s Residence. These meetings are typically open to the public, and minutes from the meetings are made available to ensure transparency.
Compliance with State Laws: The Commission must operate in compliance with Ohio’s open meetings and public records laws, ensuring that their activities and recommendations are accessible to the public.
8. Public Engagement
Public Input: The Commission may invite input from the public or local communities when making recommendations for the Governor’s Residence. This could include soliciting feedback on renovations, events, or public outreach efforts.
Community and Educational Programs: The Commission may organize community programs, educational seminars, or public events to engage Ohioans in the history and cultural significance of the Governor’s Residence.
9. Reporting and Accountability
Annual Reports: The Commission may be required to submit an annual report to the Governor or the Ohio Legislature outlining its activities, recommendations, and any funds raised or allocated for the maintenance and use of the Governor’s Residence.
Recommendations to the Governor: The Commission provides formal recommendations to the Governor regarding changes or improvements to the residence. These recommendations can include suggestions for renovation projects, security upgrades, or improvements to the residence’s operations.
Conclusion
Title 107 – Governor’s Residence Advisory Commission establishes the regulatory framework for the management and preservation of the Governor’s Residence in Ohio. The Commission’s role is advisory in nature, offering guidance on the upkeep, renovation, and use of the residence, ensuring it serves both as the Governor’s home and a venue for official state functions. Through its efforts in preservation, event hosting, and public engagement, the Commission helps maintain the Governor’s Residence as a historical and cultural landmark for Ohio.
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