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MARSHALL -- There are lots of opportunities for the University of Minnesota Extension to connect with youth in Lyon County. But there might be too many for one person to handle alone, Extension representatives said this week.
At the Lyon County Board's regular meeting Tuesday, county commissioners heard a budget request from the Lyon County Extension committee, which asked to expand the hours for one Extension educator position.
Extension regional director Bonnie Christiansen said the proposal was to take a quarter-time 4-H program assistant position and make it a 0.75 time position as an Extension educator for 4-H youth development. If the proposal is approved, the expanded position would start in 2024.
The change would increase Extension department budget costs by $40,324, according to a memo Christiansen provided Lyon County. However, it would also help support 4-H and youth programs in Lyon County.
Currently, the Extension office in Lyon County has a full-time Extension educator for 4-H youth development. They also have a quarter-time program assistant position, but it is currently vacant, Christiansen said.
Christiansen and youth development educator Sam Jens said the number of youth taking part in Extension programs in the Lyon County area has been growing. In addition to 4-H programs, Jens said he's also had the chance to work with area school districts for youth programs.
"There's a lot of need, a lot of opportunity," Jens said. "But I'm maxed out for it."
Expanding hours for another youth development educator could help, Jens and Christiansen said.
Commissioners didn't take action on the proposal at Tuesday's meeting, but they did have discussion and questions. Commissioner Rick Anderson asked if the Extension office had considered reaching out to other area counties besides Lyon, and possibly sharing the expanded position between two counties.
"We see there is a need for additional service," said Commissioner Paul Graupmann. Hopefully, it could be done as a shared service, he said.