A budget meeting was held in the cafeteria at 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 24, to discuss the most recent projections for the coming fiscal year. Among the budgetary gibberish and jargon, two things were made very clear; no one knows whether or not things are looking up for sure, but administration is planning for the worst possible scenario which includes a base pay cut of 8% “for everyone.” Dr. Fisher emphasized.
The budget meeting wasn’t only about planning for the worst, but also the announcement of what are being called “Shadow courses” which are classes that will be available if things move toward the financial positive. These shadow courses won’t actually be live on the June 6 fall semester course listing but are going to be planned and ready to go in the event of a budget that allows for them.
As this fiscal year comes to a close, the college is looking at a bottom line in the black adding approximately $3 million to the reserve fund.
With that in mind the projections for next year, based on the worst case scenario, show a net loss of another $2.3 million.
During the Q&A session following the meeting, concerned staff members sought answers to questions Dr. Fisher felt needed to be discussed with supervisors and not at the meeting. Tension began to mount and the conversation turned from discussion to a heated demand for answers.
Dr. Fisher's final thoughts on the meeting:
Pamela Ford, Classified Union President's commentary:
-Photos, video and story by Russell S.
