Needs and Niche Local government audiences have growing educational needs. Several national trends are challenging local governments and increasing demands for new knowledge and skills. One such trend is a decentralization of governmental functions and responsibilities, a shift away from the federal government toward states and localities. Another is citizens' continuing desire for greater governmental effectiveness. A third is the slowing of population loss, even population growth, in many rural communities.
Extension can, and often does, play an important role in local government education.
Within each state, local government educational needs can be served by an array of organizations and agencies. Educational help is provided by federal and state agencies, public interest groups, professional associations, local government information networks, educational institutions, and private consulting firms. This array of providers, while differing in configuration in each state, is extensive. Yet, the large numbers of people in local government audiences, their variety of educational needs, and the pressures of current trends create a great many educational opportunities. The common experience among current Extension local government educators is that needs exceed programs provided.