By Marie McCain
The Cincinnati Enquirer

OWENSVILLE - Clermont County officials are offering a workshop today to inform residents about various initiatives and budget cuts that could affect services for the mentally retarded and developmentally disabled.

Scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Thomas A. Wildey School, 2040 U.S. 50, the event will feature Ken Ritchey, director of the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities.

Ritchey will address a variety of issues, including potential budget cuts in state funding, as well as the status of a state task force created to address crimes against those with mental disabilities.

County mental retardation boards across the state are concerned about the future of their programs.

Although the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation's proposed $350 million share of the general revenue fund in 2004 marks a 4 percent increase overall, county boards are anticipating a 3 percent cut under Gov. Bob Taft's proposed budget.

The workshop will also address:

• Options for parents with a developmentally disabled child, up to age 3, who are looking for ways to foster independence in their child.

• Update on program waivers for qualifying families or developmentally disabled adults.

Cathy Marshall, an individual budget coordinator with the Clermont County MRDD, will be present to help families understand the regional changes that could affect both individuals and families.

In addition, she will talk about ways to help people with developmental disabilities make choices so they can become more independent.

The free event is sponsored by Families Connected of Clermont County.

It is open to residents of surrounding counties, and brunch and refreshments will be provided.

For information, call 732-5034.

E-mail mmccain@enquirer.com