College District OKs Tentative Budget

Trustees of the Ventura County Community College District have adopted a tentative budget for the coming fiscal year, despite concerns of some board members that the document fails to adequately address possible state budget cuts and declining enrollment.

The $61.6-million tentative budget includes a $3-million shortfall in revenues, which would be made up with the district’s cash reserves until more state funds become available, Vice Chancellor Jeff Marsee said.

Officials warn that if more money is not forthcoming from Sacramento, part-time teaching positions and course sections could be slashed before classes begin this fall.

Marsee said the district already has cut 11 teaching positions and 43 non-instructional jobs since 1990.

But Trustee Timothy D. Hirschberg said the proposed budget is “too rosy” because staff members assume the state will come up with at least another $1 million in funding.

Earlier in the meeting, the board voted 3 to 2 to approve 17 part-time positions at a cost of about $60,000. It is compensation for extra work to be performed mostly by existing employees.

Trustees Karen Boone and Gregory Cole opposed the proposal.