BY TOM O'NEILL
The Cincinnati Enquirer
BATAVIA -- Clermont County commissioners Wednesday signed a proclamation supporting an upcoming celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission (OVRDC).
It served, in part, as a thank-you.
The county has benefited from more than $17 million in project funding since the not-for-profit commission was established. The agency, based in Waverly in Pike County, serves 12 counties in Southwest Ohio.
Three 1996 county projects that received $796,015 in funding and technical assistance through the OVRDC were the business center at the Grant Career Center, and access roads at Wards Corner and Clough Pike.
Local communities benefit as well. This summer, New Richmond secured a $20,000 grant to help finance a comprehensive economic study of its 3-mile stretch of riverfront.
Local entities that have over the years secured OVRDC funding include Child Focus Inc. in 1985, the University of Cincinnati in 1992 and the Goshen Family Health Care Center in 1976-80.
The agency also helps subdivisions obtain funding for development-related projects through federal and state assistance programs, including the popular Community Development Block Grants.
"Our participation in OVRDC has been one of great benefit to the people of this county," said Commissioner Bob Proud, who since March 1991 has served as the OVRDC's elected chairman.
