LANE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES
November 17, 2010
1. Attendance
Board members present: Bob Ackerman, Pat Albright, Roger Hall, Susie Johnston, Gary LeClair, and Tony McCown. Board member absent: Sharon Stiles. Also present were: President Mary Spilde; Vice President Sonya Christian; Chief Financial Officer Greg Morgan; Legal Counsel Meg Kieran, Lane Community College Education Association President Jim Salt; and Lane Community College Employees Federation President Bob Baldwin; and Associated Students of Lane Community College President Mario Parker-Milligan.
A. Chair McCown called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
B.President's Report
The board just attended the Shining Start event this evening at the Center for Meeting and Learning. It really is a wonderful affirmation of the difference Lane makes in students' lives and of the importance of donor support for scholarships.
With Election Day behind us, we have a slightly clearer picture of what the legislative landscape will look like for us for the next two years. Democrat John Kitzhaber was elected to a record third term as governor. He is fairly well informed about community colleges, and I'll be meeting on Friday with his policy people to talk about his agenda for higher education. Even though Republican Chris Dudley lost, I think he gained a better understanding of community colleges when he visited Lane in late October. Thank you to board members Tony McCown and Pat Albright for joining us, and to Mario Parker-Milligan, his fellow students, and Sheryl Berman and her staff for being part of the visit.
The balance of the Oregon Senate is still in question, but it appears that the makeup will be 16 Democrats and 14 Republicans. The Oregon House is evenly divided with 30 Democrats and 30 Republicans. It is unclear what the power sharing arrangement will be, and it will be some time before the House leadership – including speaker, Ways and Means co-chair, and committee chairs – is decided. Locally, all state legislators running for reelection were victorious, and Lee Beyer was selected to replace retiring State Senator Bill Morrisette.
In Washington, D.C., Republicans regained control of the House, while Democrats maintain a small majority in the Senate. While it's unclear what impact the more than 80 freshman members will have on Congress, Republican leaders in the House have already indicated their intention to suspend earmarks and scale back spending, meaning it is less likely that we will see a second attempt at the American Graduation Initiative or additional stimulus funding in the near future.
Last month I attended the first meeting of the Downtown Campus Community Committee. The meeting was attended by representatives of the City of Eugene, Lane Transit District, the Library, Chamber of Commerce, downtown businesses and neighborhood association, and community members. Jim Robertson and Jill Sherman provided a project overview, and attendees were able to ask questions and give feedback. Thanks to Brett Rowlett for facilitating that. The next meeting is scheduled for November 29.
Some good news on our Downtown Campus: We were notified by the Oregon Business Development Department that we are approved for an additional $9 million in Recovery Zone Economic Development Bond authority from the state, on top of the $7.4 million already sub-allocated to the college from the city. These bonds will support the housing portion of the project. Later in this meeting we will be asking you to adopt this resolution so we can sell those bonds by the end of this year.
Thanks to board members Tony McCown, Susie Johnston, Pat Albright, and Sharon Stiles for joining me at the ACCT Annual Congress in Toronto, Ontario last month, and to Tony McCown, Pat Albright, Bob Ackerman, Susie Johnson, and Brett Rowlett for attending the OCCA conference in Sunriver a couple of weeks ago.
While I was in Washington D.C. for the AACC meeting, I attended an event at the Eisenhower Building with Vice President Joe Biden to announce new federal initiatives on the home energy retrofit industry. The initiatives are expected to create thousands of jobs across the country, and Lane is in a good position to turn out the workforce, thanks to our Energy Management and Sustainability programs.
Last month, Dave Willis, Dennis Carr, Greg Morgan, and I met with Representative Terry Beyer and ODOT staff to discuss issues surrounding 30th Avenue and I-5 traffic, especially at the start of fall term.
Once again we held the Annual OSAA State High School Cross Country Championships on main campus—in fact it was our 40th year of hosting. We had more than 4,000 spectators and athletes with nearly 100 Oregon high schools represented. Special thanks to Meet Director Grady O'Connor and to Athletics, Facilities, Public Safety, Grounds, and all the volunteers.
I presented at the Safeway Women's Group Annual Meeting in Eugene, the League STEMTech conference in Orlando, and the TIAA Cref Leadership Conference on Higher Education in New York. Last week I met with Martha Kanter, Under Secretary of Education, to discuss a follow up to the White House Summit. She indicated that the US Department of Education will continue to focus on access, quality and completion.
I had an article about the value of liberal education published in the Community College Times, and I was quoted in Inside Higher Ed about online learning.
For Profit colleges began an attack campaign against community colleges just prior to the White House Summit. Yesterday a report was released from AACC. They did a really good job of debunking many of the criticisms. One of the stunning things pointed out is that for-profit colleges serve 12% of undergraduates, and they get 25% of the Pell money. So to say that they are not publicly funded when 70% of their revenue comes from public money is a bit ridiculous. Community colleges typically spend 3% of their budget on marketing - we spend a lot less than 3% at Lane - and for-profit colleges spend approximately 20% of their budget on marketing. They are working against the administration's regulations on gainful employment which state that the jobs the students obtain after graduation must pay enough to pay off their student loans. We will be carefully monitoring and responding to these types of attacks.
The college is closed for Thanksgiving on November 25 and 26; nonetheless, many of our faculty and staff will be busy volunteering at the annual Whiteaker Community Dinner, preparing and serving food. Others are working on the annual sleeping bag drive. Special thanks to Bev Farfan, Sue Thompson, Gee McKeegan, Clive Wanstall, Joe McCully, and Brian Kelly for leading Lane's participation.
Speaking of great dinners, I want to thank Janet Anderson and the Foundation for another wonderful Harvest Dinner, our premier annual fundraiser. We raised $189,000 and set a record of $50,000 raised directly for scholarships in "bid cards up." The enthusiasm expressed by everyone in attendance underscored what a strong and growing support base Lane has in this community.
I'd like to close my report by urging you to mark December 3 and 4 on your calendars. December 3, Friday, is the grand opening of the Longhouse, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. The next day is our annual Powwow with grand entries at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. I hope you can attend one or both of these special occasions.
1) October Highlights
October highlights at Lane Community College as offered in the board mailing were presented.
2) Personnel
The college's current personnel appointments were presented.
PUBLIC HEARING
The board meeting recessed at 6:45 p.m. for a public hearing on the selection of the Construction Management/General Contractor (CM/GC) method for the Downtown Campus project. No statements from the audience were offered.
LeClair moved to close the public hearing. Albright seconded.
Motion passed unanimously.
The board meeting reconvened at 6:47 p.m.
C. Board Agenda Review
No changes were made to the board agenda.
D. Statements from the Audience
Justin Blakely, former student, expressed dissatisfaction with services he received from Disability Resources while he attended Lane.
2A. Consent agenda
Albright moved, seconded by Hall, to approve the Consent Agenda consisting of:
- Approval of the October 13, 2010 minutes
- 2010-11 Academic Calendar
Motion passed unanimously.
3. Policy Review
A. Second Reading
1. Budget Officer
Albright moved, seconded by LeClair, to approve the second reading of board policy B.080, Budget Officer.
Motion passed unanimously.
POLICY NUMBER: B.080
POLICY TYPE: GOVERNANCE PROCESS
POLICY TITLE: BUDGET OFFICER
The president or designee shall serve as budget officer. The budget officer shall be responsible for preparation and maintenance of the budget document in compliance with Local Budget Law [ORS 294].
ADOPTED: November 9, 1998
REVISED: December 10, 2003
REVIEWED: December 12, 2007
2. Community Outreach, A.110
Albright moved, seconded by Hall, to approve the second reading of board policy A.110, Community Outreach.
Motion passed unanimously.
POLICY NUMBER: A.110
POLICY TYPE:EXECUTIVE DIRECTIONS
POLICY TITLE:COMMUNITY OUTREACH
It is a benefit to the college to participate in the community, be responsive to the needs of the college district and promote activities that develop positive relationships with the broader community.
With respect to the community, the president shall assure that:
1.The college promotes the image and awareness of the college in the district.
2.A comprehensive community outreach plan, consistent with the mission, vision and core values is developed and implemented.
3.Efforts are coordinated in a manner that maximizes available material and financial resources and achieves greatest results.
4.A report on the status and results of the plan is regularly provided to the board.
B. First Reading
1. Budget Preparation and Adoption, B.090
No changes were recommended to this policy. A question was raised regarding the process for Advisory Committee and citizen input. The president will review and respond at a later time.
POLICY NUMBER:B.090
POLICY TYPE:GOVERNANCE PROCESS
POLICY TITLE:BUDGET PREPARATION AND ADOPTION
At the direction of the board of education, the president shall study budget needs and prepare recommendations on programs and services for budget committee consideration. The recommendation of advisory committees and interested citizens and organizations within the college district shall be considered by the president in developing the budget document.
The college budget shall be prepared and adopted in compliance with Oregon Local Budget Law [ORS 294].
ADOPTED: November 9, 1998
REVISED: December 10, 2003
REVIEWED: January 9, 2008
B.2. Use of Tobacco, D.160
The following change noted below was recommended to this policy. A second reading will be held in December.
POLICY NUMBER: D.160
POLICY TYPE:MISCELLANEOUS
POLICY TITLE:USE OF TOBACCO
Smoking and all other tobacco use is prohibited in all core areas of Lane's Main 30th Avenue Campus; smoking and tobacco use is allowed in four designated peripheral areas only. Smoking and other tobacco use is prohibited completely in all other Lane campuses and locations. Limited exemptions to this policy may be allowed when tobacco has a ceremonial use.
4. Discussion/Action Items
A. Downtown Campus Update
1. Construction Management/General Contractor Method
In September 2010, the board approved the draft findings and support of the Construction Management/General Contractor (CM/GC) method for the Downtown Campus project. A public hearing was held earlier in the meeting to allow for public comment.
Spilde noted one change to the findings: number 2a. should read “Use of the CM/GC method is not likely to encourage favoritism or diminish competition.”
Hall moved to approve the use of the CM/GC method for the Downtown Campus project. LeClair seconded.
Motion passed unanimously.
2. Purchase of Property.
Spilde updated the board on the status of the purchase of property from the City of Eugene for the Downtown Campus site. The college now owns the property. Spilde noted that the City of Eugene will continue to receive the revenue from the parking fees on the site until February 2011.
3. Financing
Greg Morgan informed the board that a resolution is necessary in order to provide authority to proceed with the financing needed for the Downtown Campus.
Hall moved to approve Resolution No. 559 to allow financing of the Downtown Campus to proceed with the issue of Recovery Zone Bonds. LeClair seconded.
Motion passed unanimously.
B. Statewide Governance Proposal
Spilde provided background regarding two proposals for governing higher education in Oregon. An interim legislative committee has been reviewing options. They recently published Legislative Concept #2861. In addition, the National Center for Higher Education Management has developed a proposal for a policy board for higher education. The discussion at the state level began with the idea of giving the Oregon University System more flexibility. Most of the committee discussion has been focused on the universities. Both proposals, however, would include community colleges. Legislative Concept #2861 would give more flexibility to the university system, but it would take it away from community colleges.
Board members agreed that both models, as proposed, would be detrimental to Lane. Although Oregon community colleges seem to be moving toward more involvement from the state, this proposal is not in the best interest of our college and students.
Hall moved to resolutely oppose the statewide governance proposals. Albright seconded.
Motion passed unanimously.
President Spilde indicated that administration would monitor these proposals very carefully.
5. Accountability/Reports
A. Benchmarks
Craig Taylor, Institutional Research, Assessment, and Planning director, responded to questions and comments on the following Benchmarks:
- OUS GPA's of Transfer Students
B. Facilities Update
An update on the status of bond and facility projects was presented to the board.
C. Financial Conditions and Activities: Quarterly Report
Morgan answered questions and responded to comments regarding the Financial Conditions and Activities Quarterly Report.
6. Reports
ASLCC President Mario Parker-Milligan attended the Students of Color conference at the University of Oregon. The Oregon Student Association Commission is informing students who did not receive the financial aid they need. ASLCC is working with students to request funds for the Oregon Opportunity Grant from legislators. Students are connecting with Jennifer Hayward, Sustainability Coordinator, to try to get a weather shelter for the LTD bus station.
LCCEF President Baldwin commented that the federation has still not received information from the college regarding student workers. The college has said that the information cannot be provided due to FERPA, but that information was available when the contract was signed in 2008. It doesn't seem that FERPA has changed that much since that time. Baldwin took two hours of vacation time to stand on the picket line for McKenzie Willamette hospital employees. He attended the Shining Star event, as he is a donor for the Respiratory Program scholarship.
LCCEA President Salt attended the OCCA convention where he delivered a presentation. Salt attended the ILane conference, which was remarkable, and congratulated those who helped organize the event. The faculty union is working with the college on faculty vacancies. He congratulated Don McNair, who recently was appointed to the permanent position of Executive Dean of Academic Affairs, Transfer Programs.
Vice President Christian congratulated Helen Garrett on her appointment as President of the Pacific Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers. She reported that Lane is prepared to start the conversation on progression and completion. Christian acknowledged IT staff's participation at a recent staff meeting where a difficult conversation was held regarding one of the positions.
Board Reports
Albright thanked Spilde for collaborating on the presentation at the ACCT National Congress. He echoed Christian’s comments regarding focusing on access and completion. He acknowledged Steve Candee, Political Science instructor, for his work on the political scene.
LeClair commented on the Shining Star event, noting that it is rewarding to see single mothers succeed in their educational goals.
Johnston noted that the Shining Star event was a remarkable opportunity to see scholarship recipients and listen to their stories. She gave credit to Lane's employees for making Lane a special place for students. Johnston made it clear that, although they do not respond directly to staff during board meetings, board members are very aware of issues.
McCown attended the Harvest Dinner, OCCA conference, and ACCT Congress. He also attended the pep rally held at Lane on November 10. He encouraged board members to attend the Powwow on December 4.
McCown read Stiles' report on the ACCT National Congress in which she commented on the keynote speakers and the content of breakout sessions she attended.
7. Date, Place, and Proposed Agenda Items for the Next Regular Meeting
Wednesday, December 8, 6:30 pm, Boardroom, Building 3, Lane Community College
8. The board meeting unanimously adjourned at 8:12 p.m.
| _____________________________ | _____________________________ | |
| Mary Spilde, President/District Clerk | Tony McCown, Board Chair |