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Barry County OKs $140,000 contribution to MSU Extension for 2026, funds 4‑H staffing
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Summary
The Barry County Board of Commissioners approved a 2026 memorandum of agreement with Michigan State University Extension, committing $140,000.25 to fund 1.5 full‑time‑equivalent positions (one 4‑H staffer and 0.5 clerical support). Commissioners discussed SNAP‑Ed cuts and service coverage before approving the MOA by roll call.
Barry County commissioners on Nov. 10 approved a memorandum of agreement with Michigan State University Extension that commits $140,000.25 in county funding for fiscal year 2026 to support 1.5 full‑time‑equivalent staff, including 4‑H programming and clerical support.
"This requested amount directly funds 1.5 full‑time equivalent staff," said Kai Gritter, MSU Extension District 7 director, as he requested the county contribution and explained the MOA terms, including a shortened termination notice aligned with MSU policy. Gritter said the increase — about 3 percent from last year’s request — is driven by cost‑of‑living increases.
Commissioners asked whether recent SNAP‑Ed program eliminations would reduce local services. Gritter said nutrition programming previously based in the county moved to regionally‑based staff after SNAP‑Ed changes but that MSU Extension continues to provide health and nutrition programming through other grants and regional staff.
The board moved to approve the agreement after discussion. Commissioner Tunison made the motion, supported by Commissioner Bassett. A roll‑call vote recorded ayes from the present commissioners; absent members were noted in the roll call. The motion carried.
Why it matters: The county contribution is part of a long‑standing partnership intended to fund youth programming, community education and extension services. County funding is also tied to provision of local office space and support for volunteer‑led programs such as 4‑H.
The vote: The motion to approve the 2026 MSU Extension memorandum of agreement passed by roll call (ayes recorded from the commissioners present; several commissioners were absent), and the board asked staff to forward the MOA for execution.
What’s next: Gritter said MSU Extension will continue to recruit staff for the district and provide follow‑up materials to the county; commissioners expected to see the budgets and MOA paperwork in county files.
