BATAVIA, Ohio (Dec. 6, 2018) – Clermont County Commissioners approved a 2019 General Fund operating budget of $57.9 million at their Dec. 5 session, a $1.7 million increase over 2018’s budget.
The General Fund is the largest discretionary source of funds in the county, and finances 20 of 21 elected offices in Clermont County. (The Engineer’s Office is funded through state gasoline taxes and driver license fees.) Clermont County Commissioners will also appropriate $196 million in 2019 for the other 119 special purpose funds under their budgetary control.
As required by law, 2019’s budget is balanced, with expenses not exceeding projected revenues plus unobligated cash.
Sales tax revenue, which provides 46% of General Fund revenue, is estimated to be $28.3 million in 2019. The next two largest streams of revenue include charges for services, $10.1 million, and 16.5% of the General Fund; and property taxes, $8.9 million, and 14.5% of the General Fund.
In 2019, General Fund program areas will be funded as follows:
Personnel costs account for the largest share of the General Fund budget — $44.5 million, or 76% of the budget, with $13.7 million going to other expenses. The 2019 merit raise pool for county employees is at 2.25%.
“Our General Fund appropriations budget has increased modestly over the last several years,” said Commissioner Ed Humphrey, President of the Board of Commissioners. “We go into 2019 in good fiscal shape and we will continue to ensure that our spending stays within our means.”
For questions, contact Office of Management and Budget Director Mary Rains,mrains@clermontcountyohio.gov, 513.732.7988.
########
