Countywide : District Delays Bid to Cut College Fees

The Ventura County Community College District board Tuesday delayed action on resolutions asking state legislators to change the law so senior citizens and people who are re-entering the work force will pay substantially less tuition fees.

Board President Greg Cole said a study is needed to determine the financial impact that would result from a reduction in fees. On Monday, Cole said that the number of students who are senior citizens or who are re-entering the work force may be substantial, and the financially troubled district may need their increased tuition money.

The board voted to postpone the decision until a report is issued.

To help make up for the state’s budget shortfall, the state Legislature last year raised fees from $6 to $50 per unit for students who have bachelor’s degrees. Other students’ fees increased from $6 to $10 per unit. The senior citizens want to pay $10 per unit, regardless of whether they have a bachelor’s degree.

The other resolution considered by the board Tuesday was a staff recommendation that people re-entering the work force also pay only $10 per unit, regardless of their degrees.