Commissioners to discuss proposed grantmaking moratorium
Mar 17, 2025
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Shelby County Commissioners are holding a meeting on Monday and are expected to discuss a proposed one-month moratorium on grant-making.
Earlier this month, Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. made his first appearance during a commissioner's meeting just days after his arrest for fede
ral charges. He is facing facing federal charges of bribery, kickbacks concerning federal funds, and six counts of attempted tax evasion.
Ford Jr. is accused of using his public office to secure grant funds for three non-profits and then allegedly receiving financial payments from those same three organizations.
Commissioner Ford Jr. charged with bribery, tax evasion
This is what led Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris to request a pause on Ford Jr.'s grant-making power - amid his federal prosecution.
Now a proposal from commission chairman Michael Whaley looks to put a 30-day pause on grant-making for all commissioners.
"Those charged involve grant programs and a budget process that we all play a part in. So, I want to make sure our actions are above board. And frankly, restore confidence. I think the public's confidence in county government has been shaken," said Commissioner Mick Wright during the last meeting.
Commissioner Ford Jr. placed on leave without pay from city job
This afternoon, commissioners are also expected to discuss ordinances that would change the county's ethics policies.
Edmund Ford Jr. is due back in court on May 13.
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