Josephine County commissioners back conservative staffing option for 4‑H/Extension budget

The Josephine County Board of Commissioners, meeting as the governing body of the Josephine County 4‑H/Extension Service District, discussed two staffing and budget options for the district at a workshop on April 30, 2026. Jamie Davis of Oregon State University Extension outlined the district’s funding model and staffing proposals, and Finance Director Ruth Nelson presented cost comparisons.

Davis said the extension model relies on county, state and federal funding and that Oregon State University plans to invest more than $400,000 a year in faculty salaries dedicated to serving Josephine County. She proposed separating 4‑H youth development and Master Gardener responsibilities into distinct positions and described two personnel options: Option 1 would fund a full‑time Education Program Assistant to support year‑round programming; Option 2 would rely on a seasonal summer intern to meet peak programming needs.

Nelson told the board that Option 1 would require approximately $336,000 in service district funding, while Option 2 would require about $296,000. Davis recommended an interim lease at Rogue Community College to provide office and program space while long‑term facility planning continues; the RCC lease was identified at roughly $1,650 per month, utilities included. The district’s existing building reserve (Fund 81) was reported to contain about $300,000.

Commissioners questioned how travel costs for shared positions would be allocated between counties and emphasized transparency and public accountability for Service District expenditures. Staff said travel expenses are tracked through OSU systems and allocated to the county that benefits from the service. Davis reported current participation of roughly 70 youth in 4‑H programs and 30–40 Master Gardener volunteers and outlined goals to rebuild volunteer programs and expand educational offerings over the next five years.

After discussion, a majority of the commissioners expressed support for Option 2 as a more conservative starting point that balances program rebuilding with financial risk. Davis said she would base the proposed budget on Option 2 and that final, detailed figures will be submitted to the Budget Committee at its June 4 meeting. The workshop adjourned at 2:25 p.m.

The Budget Committee meeting on June 4 will review the detailed budget proposal and staffing assumptions; no formal vote on a budget occurred at the April 30 workshop.