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MERRILL, WI (WSAU-WAOW) – Outrage in Lincoln Count after residents learn they may lose a beloved youth program as a part of budget cuts.
Dozens of people came out to speak in defense of the Lincoln County 4H program after county officials implored the community to explain just why the program was so important.
“They’re gonna lose on out opportunities, we’re not gonna have the leaders of the future, we’re building our future with these kids and I don’t think there’s been a lot of thought put into that on what that trickle down effect is gonna be.” said Brittany Boch, 4H volunteer.
“But then you’re gonna go around and get rid of something like this, that involves hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of kids, that go through sweat blood and tears working with their sheep, cattle, and pork at the fairs, this is sickening.” said one community member.
Brynlee Heidemann, a 4H member of five years, said she attended the meeting because she wants to save something she loves so much. “I want to keep 4H running so that younger kids could experience what I’ve experienced, because it’s a fun experience.” said Brynlee Heidemann.
Lincoln County is facing a $1.2-million budget shortfall. The county board asked the UW-Extension to absorb a $200,000 cut. Extension said a cut of that size would cost the county it’s 4H program, which Extension administers.
No official decision was made, the county board meets again on September 20th.
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