COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS : Funding for 3 Projects Proposed

Gov. Pete Wilson’s proposed budget for 1992-93 includes funding for three building projects at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita.

They are $1.3 million for construction of a child development center, $367,000 for preliminary engineering studies and working architectural drawings for a 16,181-square-foot library, and $351,000 for preliminary studies and working drawings for a fine and applied arts building.

“All in all, the budget is certainly the most positive . . . that we have seen in a long, long time,” college President Dianne G. Van Hook said.

Funding is also being recommended for preliminary work in the 1993-94 fiscal year for a performing arts building, including a theater; an administration building and an addition to the physical education facilities, according to Van Hook.

The administration building would allow the present structure to be dedicated to student services.

Overall, Wilson proposed a 10.1% increase in funding for the state’s community colleges, which Van Hook called the best news in years for College of the Canyons, which has experienced large enrollment increases without corresponding increases in state funding.

Also, Van Hook said the California Community College Board of Governors has approved a five-year capital outlay plan presented by the state chancellor’s office. If funds become available, the Santa Clarita Community College District would receive more than $62 million over five years for construction of buildings.

The money would enable College of the Canyons to offer new programs and classes, generate funding for operations, and create jobs for area residents and income for local businesses, Van Hook said.