LACIE SILVA
Editor
Daniel Bradford, director of the Marion County Extension, also known as Marion County 4-H, addressed the need for a new Agricultural Office building due to the program outgrowing its current facility. In line with an agreement between the university and the counties, all extension offices must be housed on county property. Bradford approached the commission to inquire whether, if funding were secured for a new extension office and agricultural center, the county would be willing to allocate approximately five acres for its construction.
Discussions focused on possible locations for the new facility. One area near the existing farmer’s market was considered, but due to the creek and a future highway project expected to take place in the next 25 years, it was deemed unsuitable. It was suggested to explore further back where an old barn once stood or look at a piece of property between the end of the road and the county property’s fence, which would need to be accessed from below.
The board ultimately referred the topic to the Building and Use Committee, with the referral unanimously approved by the commissioners.
