Entries by Todd Zinser

Secrecy in Cincinnati Government – Episode 11

Greater Cincinnati is shrouded in political secrecy, but the truth can no longer stay hidden. This episode exposes the clandestine forces at play in the heart of local governance, where sales tax dollars intended for public landmarks are ominously repurposed by shadowy 501c4 groups. With insights from Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus, we peel back […]

Fraud Hotline – Struggle Against Public Misconduct – Episode 10

  Creating a more transparent and accountable city governance as we uncover the findings from our recent review of the city’s Ethics Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Hotline. Expect to learn about the critical privacy issues and transparency concerns that have emerged since the hotline’s oversight shifted to the solicitor’s office in 2022. With 176 complaints […]

Should Cincinnati pound the table on DEI? – Episode 9

This episode sheds light on the city’s own DEI efforts, highlighting the strides and struggles of the Department of Economic Inclusion in supporting minority and women-owned businesses. Despite the city’s dedication, a 2023 Disparity Study Report has pointed out significant gaps, prompting a deeper examination of the city’s financial commitments and grants to foster equity […]

A Battle for Hyde Park’s Future – Episode 8

Hyde Park Square is on the brink of a transformation that could alter its very essence, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With three key planning commission members unexpectedly absent, suspicion looms over the legitimacy of the decision-making process. Join us as we confront the heated opposition from the community, whose voices have crescendoed into […]

Exposing Audit Oversight Failures in Cincinnati – Episode 7

Unlock the secrets of Cincinnati’s audit oversight as we expose the challenges and gaps in the city’s internal audit function. From the startling revelation of the internal audit manager’s non-compliance with Municipal Code requirements to the alarming absence of comprehensive risk assessments since 2014, this episode promises a deep exploration of the systemic failures impacting […]

Cincinnati’s City Budget: Clientelism and Politics – Episode 6

  Discover the intricate world of Cincinnati City Council’s budget decisions, where millions are strategically allocated to over 50 organizations, raising important questions about oversight and transparency. Todd promises you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how the Achieving Change Together program aims to combat gun violence through financial support to nonprofits, all while navigating the […]

The ARC Program and Its Impact on Public Safety – Episode 5

  Forget everything you know about typical emergency response systems. Our city is breaking new ground with the ARC (Alternative Response to Crisis) program, a revolutionary approach to handling non-violent 911 calls with social workers and mental health specialists instead of police officers. This initiative, which became a permanent fixture in FY23, is stirring up […]