Parameters for 4H youth development position discussed by commissioners, extension representatives

Guidelines for a vacancy in the Nebraska Extension - Antelope County office were hashed out, Tuesday, during an Antelope County Commissioners' meeting.

Extension board president Kim Young and Amy Topp, extension engagement zone coordinator for Zone 5, outlined requirements for a 4H extension assistant. A bachelor's degree is recommended for the position, which includes overseeing the 4H program, recruiting volunteers, recording results and participating in staff meetings and development.

Topp said a $40,000 salary is included in a line item in the office's budget.

Commissioner Casey Dittrich asked how the University of Nebraska can dictate a salary for a county-paid position.

According to Topp, an interlocal agreement between UNL and the county lays out the partnership.

"UNL works with the county to provide programming. The 4H online program, which county 4H members use, is through the state. Training is through the state and those stats are reported to UNL," Topp said.

Dittrich questioned if an advanced degree is necessary.

Topp said the position includes teaching. The former 4H youth development coordinator, who resigned, effective Aug. 8, had a bachelor's degree in agriculture education.

Dittrich asked if the workload has slowed for office employees following the county fair.

"There's prepping for the state fair. It's kind of intense right now," Topp said.

After the state fair concludes, the 4H school enrichment programs will begin, in addition to evaluating changes for the 2025 fair.

The position will be advertised in local newspapers and online.

Questions were raised about an extension educator position that is currently vacant.

According to Topp, an individual has agreed to fill the food and nutrition educator position, beginning in mid-September.

"She'll cover four counties, Knox, Antelope, Boone and Nance," she said. "This is a UNL-paid position."