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Extension office seeks modest increase to cover vehicle replacement and staff costs, highlights 4‑H outreach
Summary
Leavenworth County Extension leaders requested roughly a 10% funding increase to keep up with costs and pay agents at market rates; they highlighted 4‑H outreach to about 500 youth and summer school enrichment reaching 600 children in April.
Jacob Thomas, president of the Extension Council, and extension staff told commissioners the office’s budget has been flat or reduced for years and requested approximately a 10% increase to keep pace with cost-of-living adjustments and vehicle replacement needs. Staff stressed extension provides programs from youth 4‑H clubs through Master Gardener services and adult nutrition and radon‑testing outreach.
Extension staff said they support about 10 county 4‑H clubs with roughly 500 traditional youth participants and reach more than 600 children during a recent school‑enrichment month. They also noted more than 90 master gardeners who provide volunteer education and a master‑food volunteer program. The presenters explained aging vehicles (some purchased in 2009–2012) and staffing pressures were a primary driver of the requested increase.
Commissioners asked about eligibility for the county’s enterprise vehicle program and whether the extension could participate; staff said they are not eligible for that program but will follow up on potential options and partnerships.
