Budget woes hit Extension

PRINCETON — The state’s budget woes are hitting University of Illinois Extension offices across the state, and now Extension leaders are seeking public input on ways to cut costs and still provide high-impact programming.

“To be fiscally responsible, U of I Extension is planning for funding cuts, but we want to make these cuts in such a way as to maintain Extension’s strong tradition of high-impact educational programming, which has had a dramatic effect on the citizens of Illinois over the years,” said Bob Hoeft, interim Extension director.

It’s projected Extension funding will decline between $2 and $5 million next year, and a rescission of state funding is expected for the 2009-10 budget year.

The Extension office will hold a series of 10 public meetings, beginning Feb. 22 in Champaign, and concluding March 12 in Countryside. Locally, a meeting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. March 4 at the Bureau County Unit Office, located at 850 Thompson St. in Princeton.

Currently, Extension has a $65 million budget that consists primarily of federal, state, local, and grant funds that are directed to specific programming. Of that $65 million, 70 percent goes to personnel costs, 10 percent for rent and utilities, and 20 percent is spent on programming, supplies, travel and operational costs.

Jill Guynn, county director of the Bureau County office, said the local Extension office has received tremendous support from local stakeholders and residents.

“Because of this support we have been able to provide high quality and targeted educational programming to meet many local needs and address issues of concern to our people,” Guynn said.

That programming includes 4-H and youth development; agriculture; community and economic development; family, nutrition and consumer education; natural resources and master gardeners, and more.

Guynn said the need for the organization to cut costs statewide has prompted the public meetings to help determine what is most important to the citizens relative to Extension’s services.

“What has been of value to you?” she said. “What do people need from Extension? Through this statewide study of local perspectives, program priorities will be considered, the physical locations of Extension Unit offices may be consolidated, and staffing may be re-structured.”