The University of Florida Dean for Extension and Director of Florida Cooperative Extension Service is concerned about the vote at last week’s Escambia County Commission meeting to withdrew an agenda item concerning the construction of a new 4-H facility on Stefani Road.
Dean Nick Place has written a letter to 4-H youth, parents and volunteers saying the the move was not expected and a complete surprise,
“This building was an important promise made in the Memorandum of Understanding that was part of the proposal 4-H youth voted on last year,” wrote Place. “The building is to be constructed with county LOST (Local Option Sales Tax) funds.”
He stated that the current Langley Bell 4-H Center is set be closed in August, leaving Escambia County 4-H without a home if the promised building is not constructed. All activities currently taking place at the Langley Bell 4-H Center could come to a standstill, according to Place.
The dean asked the volunteers and youth to contact their county commissioners.
Place wrote, “I encourage you to email and call them to ensure that they know how you feel and what is best for the long-term future of the 4-H Youth Development program in Escambia County.”