University of Missouri Extension presents 2024 annual report; commissioners note $150,000 in county support

Representatives from the University of Missouri Extension presented the Franklin County Commission with the extension council’s 2024 annual report at a county meeting, highlighting growth in the 4‑H program, recent staff hires and a county appropriation of $150,000 to support local extension services.

"My name is Kendra Graham, and I am an extension engagement specialist with the University of Missouri Extension, serving Franklin County," said Kendra Graham, who described her role as a liaison between the university extension council, county staff and the public. She told commissioners the annual report fulfills a state statute requirement for the extension council’s reporting.

The report emphasized youth programming and community education as primary activities. Bob Buxton, vice chair of the Franklin County Extension Council, said 4‑H remains the largest youth program in the state and cited a recent hands‑on project in which 4‑H members visited Williams Brothers Meat Company to learn meat‑processing and curing techniques. "The kids were very, very enthusiastic," Buxton said.

Commissioners heard that the extension offers a broad mix of programs across ages: 4‑H youth programming, Master Gardener classes, nutrition education (including diabetic nutrition outreach), Tai Chi for older adults and a court‑ordered "Focus on Kids" program for parents in divorce proceedings. Graham told the commission that most programs are free or offered at a minimal cost.

Graham also reported recent hires for the county extension office: an agronomy specialist and a human development specialist who both began work in January, plus continuing positions that include a 4‑H youth program associate and a nutrition program associate who provides instruction in local schools.

Commissioners on the dais praised the extension’s local presence and the report. One commissioner noted the county appropriation of $150,000 that appears in the county’s appropriations budget for extension services and said the report demonstrates the partnership’s local value.

Votes at a glance: During the same meeting the commission approved several agenda items by voice vote and acted on multiple commission orders. Key outcomes included approval of the previous meeting minutes (Jan. 28 and Jan. 30); approval of an amendment to the county’s local public health agency infrastructure contract with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (Commission Order No. 2025‑30); tabling a sole‑source award to MuniLogic for a permitting application until funding is identified (Commission Order No. 2025‑31); approval of an adjustment of tax charges on the 2024 personal property tax book (Commission Order No. 2025‑32); approval of a service agreement with Buscom Incorporated for communications maintenance (Commission Order No. 2025‑33); renewal of Franklin County’s membership in the Missouri Association of Counties at $10,299 (Commission Order No. 2025‑34); and approval of the consent agenda (seven items, including liquor licenses for Downtown Washington Inc.) as Commission Order No. 2025‑35.

Commissioners thanked the extension council for the presentation and the work it does countywide. The meeting concluded with brief announcements from the commission, including a notice that one presiding commissioner’s last day in office will be Feb. 14.