BATAVIA — Clermont County Administrator Steven Wharton resigned Wednesday, effective in June.

        Mr. Wharton has been in Clermont County government for 22 years, the last eight as administrator. The six months until he leaves provides officials time to find a replacement.

        County commissioners Martha Dorsey, Richard Martin and Robert Proud accepted his resignation at the board's regular weekly meeting Wednesday.

        “For some time, I have been seeking change and focus in my professional career,” Mr. Wharton said. “... When you put so much of yourself into a place or a community or a job, it is difficult to walk away. But, at the same time, I need to balance those interests.”

        Mr. Wharton's tenure was marked by an adherence to fiscal conservatism but also an ambition to address larger-scale needs such as road improvements and social services.

        He championed the county's welfare-to-work program, but denounced quick fixes that made for more favorable statistics without fully addressing the public's needs.

        “Steve Wharton has meant more to Clermont County than most people realize,” Ms. Dorsey said.

        At commission meetings, he often provided quick and comprehensive answers to board members' questions about agenda items up for vote. Though known for his dry recitation of factual background, he also had a sense of humor.

        In 1998, he recommended — with a straight face — commissioners allocate $18,000 so he and the commission staff could take a one-day trip for a “Managing Multiple Demands” seminar.

        The seminar was in Hawaii. The day was April Fool's Day.

        He didn't crack a smile until after everyone else had.

        Then he went right back into the formal tone for which he was known.

        Mr. Wharton has no immediate job plans.

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