News Releases
News from
Lane Community College, Eugene, Oregon
Contact: Joan Aschim, 463-5591, aschimj@lanecc.edu
for release April 10, 2003
LCC proposes budget recommendations for 2003/04
EUGENE - Lane Community College on Tuesday announced budget recommendations
for 2003/04 to address a projected shortfall of $6.2 million and to maintain
a comprehensive program of offerings within fiscal responsibilities.
The state revenue picture continues to deteriorate, said President Mary
Spilde. "As responsible stewards of the community's resources we
must balance access, affordability and quality now and for the future."
Proposed revenues are a tuition rate of $62 per credit hour, up $13 from the current $49; differential pricing for some programs to set fees based on contact hours in the classroom and lab; a summer term tuition surcharge of $10; and a quarterly transportation fee of $20 for credit students and $10 for noncredit students to help fund a free student bus pass and improve parking.
Spilde noted that tuition and fees are the only major revenue sources under college control. Last year, Lane eliminated nine programs besides other reductions and tuition and fee increases. "Further program cuts would seriously limit students' choices and impact the community at a time when Lane's role in economic recovery is critical."
Spilde says although Lane County has been a strong supporter of education, Oregonians in general appear unwilling to "to continue paying 75 percent of students' education." Legislators, businesses and the governor have encouraged the college to generate more revenue. "Lane has moved from a tax supported to a tax assisted organization," said Spilde.
No programs will be eliminated under the proposal. However, credit jewelry classes will be discontinued and funding will be reduced for respiratory care, the Business Development Center, Adult Basic and Secondary Education, KLCC, and intercollegiate athletics. Hours will be reduced at the McKenzie and Churchill learning centers after analysis of local usage.
No contracted employees will be laid off but hours for some part-time classified positions will be reduced.
The budget includes some expenditure increases, for example, health and safety issues and increased property and liability insurance premiums.
Complete recommendations are available for review on the college's web site at: http://2011sitearchive.lanecc.edu/budget/0304/ETredux040803.htm
Forums for
public input on the recommendations have been scheduled:
Thursday, April 10, 6:30 p.m., Building 19, Room 104, main campus, with
administration; Thursday April 17, 6:30 p.m., Florence center at 3149
Oak Street, with administration; and Monday April 21, 4:30 p.m., Building
19, Room 104, main campus, with the Board of Education.
The board will hold additional work sessions on Wednesday, April 23, 4:30 p.m., and Thursday, April 24, 4:30 p.m. The board will make final decisions on programs, tuition and fees at a special meeting on Monday April 28, 4:30 p.m. The work sessions and meetings will be in Building 19, Room 104, main campus.
Comments
may be e-mailed to: collegebudget@lanecc.edu.
The $6.2 million shortfall is about 9 percent of the current general fund
budget of $69,597,518.
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