Mallory, joining the committee by Zoom, reviewed packet materials and highlighted upcoming events, including a Central Wisconsin Housing Summit and AI sessions for local government. She updated the committee on area staffing: UW'Madison restructured area extension coverage to meet budget reductions and the search for a new area extension director is active. Preliminary interviews were completed and final interviews are scheduled for Jan. 21 in Stevens Point; Mallory said the county should expect that position to be filled by early March if no extended notice is required from the selected candidate.

Mallory invited committee members to attend the finalists' presentations in person or via Zoom and said she will share Zoom links and additional details.