Plugged In: For UMaine Extension Staff and Volunteers

Extension Leadership Team Meeting Minutes January 7, 2019

Extension Leadership Team Meeting
January 7, 2019
UMA – Farmhouse 11

Facilitator: Dennis Harrington
Note taker: Richard Brzozowski

Centralized Database Management System (CDMS) annual update:

The effectiveness of the CDMS is demonstrated by its usage: Users were up by 1,459 over 2017, for a total of 6404 (23%) during 2018. The revenue processed through the system was up from 2017 by $12,909 (7%) for a total of $183,499. The system facilitated registration and revenue collection for 166 workshops and programs, many of which also required development of customized technological solutions.

UMaine and Extension Guidance on Marijuana-related Programming

In response to Extension staff who requested guidance on how to respond to clients requesting support or educational programming related to marijuana, the ELT consulted University counsel and has been advised as follows, which the ELT has adopted as policy:

“Marijuana of any kind and activities related to its sale or distribution remain illegal under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) at the Federal level and to a certain extent the same under Maine law (possession, sale, and transportation being illegal over certain thresholds). Given this, any business that is working with marijuana without an express license from the DEA is operating in violation of Federal law. Therefore, it is not recommended that advice and collaboration be given to such businesses because of the risk that such would be within the Federal definition of a criminal principal AKA aiding and abetting:  “Whoever commits an offense against the United States or aids, abets, counsels, commands, induces or procures its commission, is punishable as a principal.”  Extension staff should deny assistance to known cannabis operations on this basis.  This would include any services supported by non-federal funds. This guidance is offered unless and until cannabis receives different treatment under the CSA.”

Extension Staff Input to UMaine Strategic Plan

Under President Ferrini-Mundy’s leadership, the University has been involved in a process to develop a vision for UMaine’s future.  A public information gathering process invited input on a variety of items including three draft strategic values as the core of the vision.  To ensure that these three strategic values are grounded, Provost Hecker is now seeking additional feedback from UMaine departments and staff.

To that end, the ELT is inviting all Extension staff to reflect on the three strategic value statements, and provide any feedback and comments by January 25.  Lisa and Jon will work with Cindy Eves-Thomas to develop a survey through which all Extension staff will be invited to provide input on the value statements.  The ELT will review survey comments and present a summary to Provost Hecker for his consideration as the final vision document is prepared.

Search Updates

Extension Crops Entomology Specialist – Interviewing
Assistant Director – Tanglewood – Interviewing
Parent Educational Professional (Sagadahoc) – Advertising
Administrative Specialist CL3 Andro/Sag –  Melissa Freeman hired
Temp CEA CL2 – Maine 4-H Community Central – Advertising

2019 ELT Meeting Dates

Meetings are from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm, unless otherwise noted