Describe the Issue or Situation.

Oldham County Extension leased two adjacent office buildings in 2018, the new location tripled the amount of space available for Extension programs, and in 2020 Extension purchased the buildings. Over the course of the next two years, Extension programming expanded, and the County Extension Council and District Board determined the need to expand Extension facilities.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

In 2022, the County Extension Council set up a Property Search Committee comprised of Council, Board and Community members. The Committee was established to locate a property to meet the growing needs of Extension programs and present a suitable property to the Council. For the next two years, the committee members collaborated with community members and elected officials touring properties. The committee asked Council and Board members, Extension Staff and club leaders to submit ideas or programming needs and an Extension “Wish List” was developed.  

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

The Property Search Committee was comprised of County Extension Council Member, District Board Members, Community Business Member, Local Engineer, Planning/Zoning Member and the Extension Agents. The Property Search Committee audience was Council and District Board Members, Clients, Club Leaders and Community Members.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

The Property Search Committee found and presented a 67-acre farm in Crestwood to the County Extension Council for consideration; the property was approved for purchase. The Extension District Board closed on the property August 15, 2024. The Property Search Committee has been disbanded and a Property Development Committee is being formed. The Extension District Board has started the development of a Comprehensive Plan for the property and are hosting an Open House event at the property for extension clients, club leaders and community members providing an open forum for suggestions, property development needs and locations on the property for programming.