Clare County voters pass MSU Extension millage

On Aug. 4, Clare County voters chose to fund Michigan State University Extension through a millage that will continue funding for community through 2025.

On Aug. 4, Clare County voters chose to fund Michigan State University Extension through a millage. The 0.13-mill request will provide funding for MSU Extension for six years.

MSU Extension is a three-way funding partnership between local, state and federal government. Local investment secures federal, state and grant funding in service to Clare County residents. Through this partnership, residents are connected to the university network of experts and to statewide programs in youth development, agriculture, health and nutrition, natural resources protection and development, and community and economic development.

“We’d like to thank all of the people who’ve supported Extension along the way, especially during this ballot request period,” said Shari Spoelman, MSU Extension district director. “I especially want to thank the members of the ballot committee the ‘Supporters of Clare County MSU Extension’.”

“The community has our commitment to be good stewards of millage funds to further our mission to serve Clare County,” said Spoelman. “We pledge to work hard to ensure that we are meeting the needs of Clare County residents by providing strong, relevant programming.”

Erika Schunk, chair of the Supporters of Clare County MSU Extension, commented, “We have great news to report that our millage has passed! Thank you to the voters, supports and everyone along the way that has made this possible. Great things are in store for MSU Extension and Clare County 4-H!”

MSU Extension has served in Clare County for over 100 years. MSU Extension provides leadership, life skills training and opportunities to more than 1,200 youth annually in programs such as 4-H. In the last year, they’ve helped 2,300 adults and youth through programs and services, and contributed to spending $171,574 with local businesses in Clare County.

MSU Extension helps people improve their lives by bringing the vast knowledge resources of MSU directly to individuals, communities and businesses. With a presence in every Michigan county, MSU Extension faculty and staff members help grow Michigan’s economy by equipping Michigan residents with the information that they need to do their jobs better, raise healthy and safe families, build their communities and empower their children to dream of a successful future.

To find out more about MSU Extension programs and services, visit extension.msu.edu.

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