Lancaster County Extension says current budget is on track; highlights 25,000 volunteer hours and staffing costs

Karen Wobig, Lancaster County Extension Unit Leader, told the Board that the current year budget is on track and that she does not expect to request additional appropriations for the year.

Wobig highlighted Extension’s community value through a mix of county, state, university and federal funding and estimated volunteer contributions at roughly 25,000 hours annually. She explained the staffing structure: four County FTEs, nine University‑hired positions funded by the County, and four summer interns; she said personnel costs represent about 88% of the total budget. "The current year budget is on track with no need for additional appropriations," Wobig said.

Operating expenses were reviewed line‑by‑line with attention to areas for reductions where possible; Wobig said the technology fund request is routine and reflects scheduled replacement of laptops and desktops on a six‑ to seven‑year cycle. She noted longer‑term facility considerations — such as possible office expansion and restroom updates — but said expansion is not an immediate priority and should remain on a planning list.

Wobig described Extension programs that align with county strategic goals in economic prosperity and community health, including nutrition education, youth programming, work with unhoused families, parenting support, agriculture and water research, pesticide training, and child‑care provider development. Commissioners did not record additional directives; the presentation was entered into the budget review record.