Portage County says it can't repay $700K to the state

RAVENNA, Ohio (AP) — Portage County ordered to repay the state nearly $700,000 says it doesn’t have the money and will be forced to slash jobs and services.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services this week accused the county of blowing much of the federal job training funds on gifts such as laptops and video games and on advertising that wasn’t authorized.

County Commissioner Maureen Frederick says complying with the state’s demand would cause financial hardships. She says attorneys have suggested that the county appeal the repayment order.

Frederick also says if the county finds any evidence of fraud or abuse involving the money, it will be prosecuted “to the fullest.