By Marie McCain
The Cincinnati Enquirer

BATAVIA - Clermont County commissioners Wednesday unanimously approved a 2003 budget of $52.2 million.

Revenues for the coming year are estimated at $47.7 million, but officials said state law requires the county to hold in reserve a portion of the operating expenses, creating a cushion to offset unanticipated needs.

"We make sure the previous year's revenues become a target for the operating expenditures," said County Administrator David Spinney. "So, we could cut our capital expenses if need be and still maintain our operating expenditures."

No cutbacks are expected for the coming year.

But there was some concern about future revenues.

Mr. Spinney told commissioners that "unless revenue forecasts improve we'll be in a much more difficult situation in 2004.

"We have been saved by revenues over the last few years," he said. "We're still in good shape, but if things go the next year the way they did last year, there will be a lot more discussions with elected officials and department heads about maintaining their budgets."

County commissioners also approved an agreement to supply water to the Village of Williamsburg over the next 10 years at a cost of $310,000 per year.

Wednesday's meeting was also one of the last for Commissioner Martha Dorsey, who is retiring after 16 years on the board.

Attorney R. Scott Croswell, who won in November, will replace her.

E-mail mmccain@enquirer.com