The Southwestern Community College unanimously voted to move forward with two building projects after a public hearing held during its regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday.
Two public hearings were held for public comment on the proposed science laboratory renovation and ag center addition projects, which are estimated to cost $2 million, collectively.
The board received no written or oral comment for or against the budget.
“We do have the specs and the plans here on site. We will be moving ahead if you so choose tonight,” said Vice-President of Economic Development Tom Lesan. “There will be three bids for the ag and three bids for the science renovation as well ... general, electrical and mechanical.”
Construction is scheduled to start May 15 and will be completed by the end of fall semester.
Affirmative action
During the meeting, Jolene Griffith, director of human services, presented the college’s affirmative action plan, which is document required for organizations under federal contracts and reviewed by the Department of Education.
Griffith said the report shows how well the school recruits females and minority populations in positions at the college.
“When you look at the demographics of the community college region, we are continuing to grow in minority populations and, surprisingly our white, non-Hispanic populations are decreasing in each of our counties,” said Griffith.
Griffith said she’s proud of the college for ranking “very well” in recruiting minority students.
“We have 15.7% ... the state as a whole leads the nation in penetration of minority students,” said Griffith.
Griffith noted that, while it is not the purpose of the report, it is important to observe how the region is changing.
Board approve the affirmative action plan as presented.
In other SWCC board news:
• The board approved a depository resolution, governance process – annual board planning cycle policy (as revised), governance process – board member vacancy policy (as revised), the mandated/regulated Speech and Expression at Public Institutions of Higher Education policy (SF274).
• The board approved the resignation of Josh Keul, electrical instructor, effective at the end of his current contract.
• The board approved the retirements of Cheralyn White, secretary of Adult and Continuing Education, and Mary Jo Skarda, administrative assistant to the president and board secretary. Skarda’s retirement is effective May 31 and White’s retirement is effective Aug. 16.