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HAMILTON — If Hamilton opts to cancel its funding to the Butler County Community Health Consortium, its director said it will hurt the uninsured but not force the facility to close.

"It would mean that we would see fewer uninsured individuals. Basically, that's what that money covers," said Don Reimer, interim executive director for the consortium.

Hamilton contributes annually $150,000 — $100,000 from its general fund and $50,000 from community development block grant dollars, Reimer said.

City council is considering removing the funding as one of many expense-cutting options following a report in May that projected general fund financial crisis in 2009. City council held off making a decision about funding for the center at its July 9 meeting.

Mayor Don Ryan reiterated several times at the meeting that Hamilton and Middletown were the only municipalities that contributed to the center even though it serves the entire county.

"Hamilton as a jurisdiction gives the biggest chunk," added Councilwoman Kathy Becker.

By ZIP code, Reimer said Hamilton residents make up 78 percent of the patients at the Bever Center on Second Street, which is run by the consortium. The consortium operates another facility in Middletown.

Low income people who visit the consortium's centers pay $20 for the visit, but it actually costs closer to $125, Reimer said. Hamilton's contribution makes those discounts possible, he said.

A variety of sources — including federal grants and fees — funds the consortium's activities. Reimer hopes that funding will continue from Hamilton, but realizes the city's finances may dictate the situation.

"They supported us for many years and we certainly understand they're in a financial crisis," he said.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2190 or jrinaldi@coxohio.com.