Purdue Extension to move to 12-team regional model; Vermillion office to remain open

Representatives from Purdue Extension briefed the council on a statewide reorganization that will shift services to a regional model. Lori Balzlach, speaking for Purdue Extension Vermillion County, said the change will group counties into region-based teams and is intended to increase efficiency while preserving local services.

Balzlach said, “The new structure will be operational by January 2027,” and confirmed the Vermillion County Extension office at 703 West Park Street in Cayuga will remain open. She added that 4‑H programming would continue to be delivered locally and that the regional approach will allow Extension to share expertise across neighboring counties. Dee Nisley, introduced as Region 5's regional operations lead, also spoke about working with county officials to ensure services remain accessible.

Council members thanked Extension staff for the update and said they would coordinate with the regional team as implementation proceeds. No county action or funding decision was requested during the briefing.