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Extension leaders ask Frederick County to consider a Winchester City representative and to support staffing needs
Summary
Extension staff described regional vacancies and funding structures, asked the county to consider appointing a Winchester City resident to an at‑large council seat, and urged local support to fill long‑vacant agent positions.
Extension leaders told the council that staffing shortages and the council’s membership structure are constraining service delivery across the five‑county region and asked for county consideration and support.
The leadership council said it has an at‑large opening and suggested a Winchester City resident would bring helpful perspective because some Extension agents now work in Winchester City Schools. Extension staff explained their funding model: federal dollars flow through USDA, the state distributes funds via Virginia Tech, and localities provide partial funding for agent salaries and office space.
Staff noted specific vacancies: an Ag and Natural Resources position that has been vacant in Clarke County for approximately 12 years, and a regional animal science position previously held for 33 years by Corey Childs, who died in September and whose role the region intends to refill in winter or spring. Extension representatives said they have advocated for additional FY26 staffing in the regional budget process and have been in contact with delegates and the state office in Blacksburg about potential funding.
The board did not take a vote but asked staff to follow up with details about the membership charter and staffing requests so the county can consider appointments and budget support.
