University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension Kendall County Unit Council Special Meeting Minutes April 9, 2008

Council Members Present: Brian Watkins Shawna Watkins Diana Hester Belinda Hill Aaron Morris Wayne Mundsinger Pat Van Riper Louise Cernekee Cheryl Johnson

Council Members Absent: Connie Emery Ted Mathewson Jeff Wayda Esther Agyemfra Janice McCann LaDonna Redmond Katie Brummel Jake Lambert Mark Petri

Staff Present: Sandra Davis

Guest: Dr. James Oliver, Regional Extension Director

Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 6:18 p.m. by Chairman Wayne Mundsinger.

Introductions to Dr. Oliver and council members present were made.

Overview of County Board Match Dilemma (Dr. Oliver) Dr. Oliver explained that most or all Illinois counties’ Extension Units will have to make changes for the FY08 fiscal year with a 0% match in funding. In essence, the unit has had to operate with 50% of the budget ($193,000). For FY09, all counties need to plan on an 85% state match. By 2010, each unit must have a balanced budget. Sandra distributed the Trust Financial Report FY08 for March and a Projected Report Ending June 30, 2008. Pledged donations and expenditures were discussed, including wages, program costs and separation pool costs. Totals for FY09 budgets were estimated for two separate scenarios.

Motion for Executive Session: 1st: Cheryl Johnson 2nd: Aaron Morris Action: Approved

Session began at 6:51 p.m.

Motion to Leave Executive Session: 1st: Cheryl Johnson 2nd: Brian Watkins Action: Approved

Special Meeting resumed at 7:30 p.m. Impact on Local Funding (Sandra Davis): Sandra Davis noted the funding sources (with accompanying funding amounts) that may change as a result of the non-match/partial match scenario.

Program Prioritization (Core Program Areas)/General Discussion (Wayne Mundsinger): Cheryl noted that support staff needs to be in place to support the existing programs. Staffing concerns, both local and regional, were questioned. Long term consequences of staff cuts/shortages were discussed. Cost recovery systems to offset program costs were recommended. Fees for such, as well as grants and other funding sources were suggested. Council members encouraged a resolution (similar to one that the Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts have scripted) should be presented to the Kendall County Board next Tuesday, then sent to the Illinois legislature and the state governor.

Motion to adjourn meeting: 1st: Aaron Morris 2nd: Pat VanRiper

Meeting adjourned at 7:48 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Louise Cernekee, Secretary