Harvey County approves $380,000 2026 budget for Extension Council

The Harvey County Board of Commissioners approved a $380,000 2026 budget for the Harvey County Extension Council during its June 3 meeting, voting 2–1 after commissioners discussed revenue estimates and statutory timing constraints.

County staff explained the action was required within 10 days of the council's presentation. The Extension Council asked for no increase from its current request and said the operating budget is supplemented by K‑State support and other fund sources. The council's submitted packet showed an estimated dedicated mill‑levy revenue of about $371,000; staff noted the county’s final valuation numbers were not yet available and that the council planned to use a small portion of fund balance to make up any shortfall.

Rick (Extension Council representative) and several board members attended and reiterated that the council was not requesting an increase. Commissioners discussed whether to approve the full requested $380,000 now or commit to the lower revenue estimate; one commissioner said they were inclined to ask the council to accept the estimate instead, but cited the statutory requirement to act within 10 days as a limiting factor.

After discussion, a motion to approve the $380,000 request carried on a 2–1 vote. Commissioners asked staff to include the extension budget paperwork in the county budget packet and noted that final valuation and revenue numbers could alter future allocations. The county clarifying materials indicate the extension fund is a countywide separate mill levy established to fund extension operations.