John O'Grady was elected to the Franklin County Board of Commissioners in November 2008, and took office in January of 2009. He had previously served two four-year terms as the Franklin County Clerk of Courts.

During his tenure as Clerk, Mr. O’Grady was active in the Ohio Clerk of Courts Association (OCCA). In 2007, he served as the 3rd Vice President of the Association, and chair of the Legislative Committee. In addition, he was a member of the OCCA’s Dealer Relations, Program, Court Technology and Certification committees; as well as serving as co-chair of the Education committee for several years.

Mr. O’Grady served as chair of the Franklin County Automatic Data Processing Board for a two-year term, 2007-2008. The Data Board is the body of elected and appointed officials which convenes monthly to decide upon County Information Technology resolutions, as well as personnel and budget issues concerning the County’s Data Center.

Mr. O'Grady began his career in public service with State Treasurer Mary Ellen Withrow, who later served as Treasurer of the United States. John worked for several years as Treasurer Withrow’s Administrative Assistant and Liaison.  John also served as a lobbyist for The Ohio Academy of Trial Lawyers and as Field Director for statewide candidates and ballot initiatives.  He has extensive experience in private business as well, both as a manager of a large company and as private business owner.

Mr. O'Grady served for six years on the Board of Trustees of the Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio (EFCO). He served as Board president in 2002-2003, and recently served as chairman of the EFCO Fund Development committee.  Mr. O’Grady is an active supporter of programs that promote hands-on educational experiences for young people.  He is an honorary board member of Kid’s Voting, Central Ohio. He has also partnered with the Columbus City Schools to participate in mentoring programs including the Guest Readers program, Principal for a Day, and Groundhog Job Shadow Day.

Mr. O’Grady is the founder of the Hearts Over Clubs Charity Fund, a non-profit organization that benefits the families of heart disease victims. He is a lifelong member of the Catholic Church, and serves as a lector at St. Brendan the Navigator Church.

Commissioner O'Grady's Contact Information:
Sharon Keels,
Aide to Commissioner O'Grady
614.462.5589
skkeels@franklincountyohio.gov