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Extension seeks $170,000 county appropriation, proposes split Ag agent with Riley County
Summary
K-State Research & Extension requested $170,000 in county appropriations for 2027 to support staffing and programming; the council described a planned 70/30 Riley–Wabaunsee split for a shared Ag & Natural Resources agent effective August 1, 2026 if an MOU is signed.
K-State Research & Extension representatives on June 8 asked the Wabaunsee County Commission to appropriate $170,000 for 2027 to fund essential staffing, programming and operations.
Northeast Region Director Aliesa Good and Wabaunsee County Extension Council Chairperson Tasha Raine presented program participation and volunteer hours for 2025–26 and asked the county for funding that would cover a modest cost-of-living adjustment, rising insurance costs, utilities, and technology. "4-H and Youth Development is the strongest bond that her family has with the Extension Office," Raine said, emphasizing youth programming and school-based enrichment. Commissioners questioned the timeline for hiring an Ag & Natural Resources Agent; Good said discussions are underway with Riley County for a split position (70% Riley, 30% Wabaunsee) and that under the arrangement the agent would not carry 4-H responsibilities in Wabaunsee County. The Memorandum of Understanding is in process and would be effective August 1, 2026 if signed.
Extension council members and program coordinators described expanded offerings for aging adults, Medicare assistance and other community services. Council members stressed fiscal responsibility and maintaining reserves while supporting outreach and leadership development programs.
