Ohio Developer Drops $64K on Local Race

A developer dropped a jaw-dropping $64,000 on a Warren County commissioner race—Ohio’s no-donation-limits policy let it happen. The cash came from Justin Conger, head of Conger Construction, to support Lebanon Mayor Mark Messer’s GOP primary bid. Conger says it’s pure belief in Messer’s leadership—not a quid pro quo. Messer calls Conger a longtime friend and insists no favors were promised. The move ignited debate: opponent Tom Grossmann ran ads tying the donation to potential conflicts. Messer outraised Grossmann 3.5 to 1, mostly thanks to Conger. Meanwhile, Conger’s company is negotiating to develop a 3.4-acre plot in Lebanon with three manufacturing buildings for small businesses. It’s a high-stakes local story where big money, politics, and development collide—with no rules broken, but plenty of attention earned. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c925c73aa97b97c3