The University of Illinois Extension Service is now looking at having to cut its budget by 25-percent because of the state's budget problems. Bond County and interim Marion County Extension Service Coordinator Lynn Weiss says the goal is not to eliminate services in the local extension centers. She reports a series of listening sessions are currently being held to gain ideas.

Weiss says Marion County will be asked to join with two other counties for administrative services. "What we're asking the citizens are two fold.  One is to find out what areas they are most interested in as far as subject matter expertise so we can hone in on those people that would serve the Marion County residents.  Second we want to look at our neighbors to see who we might be able to share resources and who our best partners would be," Weiss explained.

Weiss says while some counties could lose their physical extension center buildings, that's not likely in Marion County.  "The local people have indicated that is their wish to keep the building and I think that is being taken under full consideration," Weiss added.     She says a meeting will be held with the Extension Building Association that owns the extension office in Salem to see how building costs can be reduced.

Weiss reports the Educational Centers in Mt. Vernon and Effingham and elsewhere around the state will be closing.  "Education Centers will be closing depending on when their leases are up and educators will be either developing home offices or moving into county facilities," Weiss said.    She wouldn't be surprised to see some of the specialists housed in Marion County since the Salem office has room available.

Weiss reports maintaining 4H has been set as a high priority.  She notes so far the Extension Centers have not received any funding for the fiscal year that began July first and may not receive any funds until June. The local extension center advisory committee is expected to discuss their options at its March meeting. The date has not yet been set.