GCC November Regular Board Meeting

IRONWOOD TOWNSHIP, MI - Wednesday, November 25, 2009 - The college budget topped the agenda of the Gogebic Community College Board of Trustees at last night’s regular monthly meeting. According to Erik Guenard, Dean of Business Services, revenues and expenditures are up about 3 percent, reflecting the increased revenue and costs of enrollment growth. “The budget submitted tonight shows a greater fund balance and contingency than in recent years,” said Erik Guenard, Dean of Business. “These balances are due to the exceptional planning of the college community to absorb some of the budgetary decisions that are anticipated to come from the State of Michigan in the next several years.”

The budget as presented to the Board maintains a contingency of approximately $615,700.

“Although community colleges as a whole were spared from budget cuts by the State of Michigan this year, we fully anticipate that will not happen again in the future and are planning accordingly,” said Guenard.

The Board approved the $9,761,807 budget.

In other action, December candidates for graduation were approved and will be invited to attend the Commencement Ceremony in May.

The Board approved the resignation of Ms. Carrie Miljevich, the College’s Director of Institutional Development. Miljevich has served in that capacity at GCC since 2008. The Board has authorized the Administration to work with the Foundation Board of Directors to begin the replacement process.

The Board approved all rates at Mt. Zion to remain the same for the upcoming season. Full day rates are $16; half day rates are $14; and tubing rates remain at $12. Season pass rates for individuals remain at $150, with family rates holding at $350.

Bids were solicited for the college’s marketing and promotional materials, along with production. The Board awarded the bid to By George Marketing of Mellen, WI for $14,735.

In an effort to streamline the payment process for GCC students and donors, the Board approved the purchase of an online payment software platform from Jenzabar, which is compatible with the college’s computer system.

A proposal to initiate a feasibility study with Northern Initiatives, from Marquette, was approved to assess growth opportunities in the Houghton/Hancock area.

A three-year lease was approved with Charter Communications for cable television service throughout the residence hall on campus. Housing rates will be increased $50 per resident per semester to offset the cost.