University of Minnesota Extension highlights local programs, MOA and requested 3% increase for 2026–27

Tammy McCulla, regional director for University of Minnesota Extension, updated Scott County leaders on Extension’s local portfolio and next‑year budgeting.

Extension reported 310 youth enrolled in 4‑H programming in 2025 with a retention rate of roughly 72%, and described new programming (leasing models for animal projects, homeschool pilots and camps) to broaden access. The financial capability educator connected with Hope’s Portage and local partners and reported 236 participants in financial education classes and direct counseling sessions intended to help residents draft and implement budgets.

Agricultural and natural‑resource education and the master gardener volunteer program were highlighted: Extension said master gardeners donated about 1,900 pounds of produce to Scott County food shelves in the past year, and volunteers contributed several thousand hours of service across the combined counties.

McCulla said the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the University of Minnesota and Scott County runs through 2027 and covers the local portfolio; the county’s package price for 2026–27 includes a planned 3% increase to cover salaries, fringe and program delivery costs.

Why it matters: Extension provides research‑based education and countywide programming that ties to county priorities—youth development, food access, agriculture and volunteer capacity. The MOA and proposed increase are budget items commissioners will consider in the context of county commitments to shared FTE and program costs.

Next steps: Extension said it will continue to coordinate programming with county partners, provide details of its local staffing and funding package and meet with commissioners as the county’s budget process advances.