KBIA Local
(2009-01-29)
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COLUMBIA, MO
(KBIA) -
Governor Jay Nixon appeared on the University of Missouri campus this morning, a day after he suggested cutting the University of Missouri Extension budget in half. KBIA's Maureen McCollum has more.
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Many university officials say they're surprised by Governor Jay Nixon's proposed cuts to MU Extension funding. Only a week ago, Nixon promised to keep university funding at the same level next year if officials pledged not to raise tuition. M-U Vice Provost and Extension Director Michael Ouart released a statement yesterday saying he's disappointed and perplexed by the decision. MU Chancellor Brady Deaton says he was surprised, but understands the governor has to make tough decisions, given the current economic situation. He says the Extension has always been a part of the university's core budget, but there may have been some misunderstanding about that. Deaton says Extension programs are vital to the state and nation.
"And they're very much aligned with the governor's objectives for the state, and that is to create health care for nutrition for the state, create jobs, and stimulate the economy, and improve education."
Deaton says regardless of what happens, MU Extension will continue to be vibrant. He says he's unsure as of now what cuts would be made to the programs. Governor Nixon didn't expand on why he suggested cuts to Extension, but says he has to prioritize the budget.
"Not that I don't support that mission, but budgets have to be balanced and I thought that this was the best connector for us economically to get the jobs of the future."
Cuts to MU Extension haven't been finalized. Nothing will be decided until the legislature proposes it's budget and the governor makes suggestions around May. KBIA is partially funded through MU Extension.
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