Visitors warn commissioners about Chinese Communist Party influence, Falun Gong persecution

During the Nov. 17 commissioners meeting, visitors Tianlun Jian, a retired economist from Cleveland and his wife Jingchun Guo addressed the commissioners to share concerns about Chinese interference in America and human rights abuses in China, particularly the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners by the Chinese Communist Party. They described the practice of Falun Gong as a peaceful spiritual discipline combining meditation and moral teachings centered on truthfulness, compassion and forbearance — banned by the Chinese government in 1999, leading to widespread persecution.

Jian and Guo alleged ongoing abuses such as organ harvesting, censorship and CCP propaganda efforts aimed at influencing public opinion both in China and abroad.

They also spoke about Shen Yun, a performing arts company founded by Chinese artists in exile that seeks to revive traditional Chinese culture through music and dance. Based in the United States, Shen Yun tours internationally, showcasing classical Chinese dance, live orchestral music and vibrant costumes. Its performances highlight ancient legends and moral themes connected to China’s spiritual heritage, including Falun Gong, which has led to interference and opposition from the CCP.

Jian and Guo urged the commissioners to support Senate Bill S.817, legislation that would bar individuals involved in organ harvesting from entering the United States.

In an unrelated matter, Public Defender Stephen Kandel gave his required updates for 2024 and 2025, reporting steady case numbers and expenses throughout both years. State reimbursements averaged 85% in 2024 before dropping slightly at year’s end, and 93% to 82% in 2025. Commissioners noted the reports fulfill the county’s monthly reporting requirement under Ohio Revised Code 120.14(B).

In other business, commissioners: 

— Accepted the resignation of Assistant Dog Warden Fawn Auman, effective Dec. 12. A motion was approved to advertise for a replacement. 

— Approved a motion to increase the spending limit for the wellness program’s purchase orders from $5,000 to $10,000. The change allows Assistant Clerk April Mayday to pay multiple vendors associated with the program without requiring additional board approval for each payment. 

— Heard Clerk Eva Johnson provide community announcements, including that the American Red Cross is offering free smoke alarms and installation for those in need, and Ohio’s Winter Safety Awareness Week will be observed from Nov. 16–22 with tips available on the state’s weather preparedness website. 

— Paid the bills totaling $86,173.14.