(KNZA)--A proposal to create an extension district that would include Atchison, Brown and Doniphan Counties has failed to gain the approval of the Brown County Commission.

The proposal was a topic of discussion at an evening session of the Brown County Commission Monday, held in the basement of the Sheriff's Office.

A number of residents spoke in support of the proposal during the public comment portion of the meeting. They said formation of the extension district would offer several benefits—including resource sharing, specialization of staff and increased efficiency.

Brown County Extension Council President Austin Heiniger said he felt it would be beneficial to the county. He said there are currently 21 extension districts in Kansas involving over half the state's 105 counties.

Two county residents voiced opposition to the proposal. One said they were not in favor of the creation of another taxing entity, while the other questioned whether the county is required to fund the extension program.

Later in the meeting, Commissioner Rich Lehmkuhl made a motion to approve a resolution to form the district. However, the motion died due to the lack of a second.

Commission Chairman Lucas Heinen voiced concerns that the proposal would result in future property tax increases, something he says he ran against. He said he did not feel the timing was right.

Commissioner Bill Pollock voiced concerns about losing local control as the extension district would be overseen by a board who would set the mill levy rate.

The Atchison County Commission in May approved formation of the district, while the Doniphan County Commission has not voted on proposal.