Stay tuned for an update on what is happening following the County Commission hearings September 4th and 11th
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UF/IFAS COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE CONSIDERED FOR ELIMINATION
July 7, 2008
Dear Industry Members & Supporters-
The Polk County, UF/IFAS, Cooperative Extension Service is on the list of proposed cuts for the draft 2009 Polk County Budget. By the county not providing funding to continue Extension service, UF/IFAS would reallocate resources including personnel currently devoted to Polk County to other areas or counties. This would result in a cessation of all local Extension service programming delivered to the agriculture industry and citizens of Polk County. This will eliminate every segment of the program in Polk County including 4-H Youth Development, Agriculture and Natural Resources, and Ag Center Operations (Events held at the facility).
Please refer to the frequently asked questions below for details about this issue. Talking points and more information will be available on Monday, July 14th. Industry members and supporters are asked to contact the county commissioners via phone and email to stress the importance of Extension to the agriculture industry and residents of Polk County.
Due to the passage of amendment one, tax reform and the downturn in the economy, we are facing tight budget times on the local and state level and elected officials have tough decisions to make. Being positive about the benefits of extension is the most effective way to communicate on this issue. If you have further question feel free to contact me at (863) 533-0561 or via email at hnedley@verizon.net.
Thanks in advance for showing your support for these worthwhile county programs.
Heather Nedley
Executive Director
Polk County Farm Bureau
Frequently Asked Questions:What cuts are being proposed in the draft budget?
The value of taxable property in Polk County decreased by 4.4% this past year. Due to the slowdown in the economy, there have also been decreases in other revenues, such as sales tax, which will further reduce revenue to the General Fund. The passage of amendment one decreased revenues as well. They are anticipating a General Fund reduction of approximately $27 million in 2009.
The draft 2009 Polk County Budget will cut the Polk County Extension Service including:
4-H Youth Development $109,000
Agriculture/Natural Resources $309,860
Ag Center Complex Operations $147,988