Denise Aberle-Cannata

The meeting commenced with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the reading of the CWI mission statement, followed by visitor introductions. The consent agenda was approved, which included discussions regarding the Treasurer's Report and Capital Projects Budget to Actuals Report. Key discussions focused on absorbing mandated state budget cuts through salary and operating savings, confirming that foundation funds are separate and have a balance between $5.5 to $6 million. The board reviewed budget projections, noting tuition and fees are on track, but overall revenue may fall short due to state cuts. Updates were provided on grant funding, showing over $5.8 million awarded this year. The status of capital project expenditures, totaling $60 million excluding recent projects, was also reviewed. The President's Report highlighted enrollment growth, serving nearly 34,000 learners, opening two new facilities, and nearing an $24 million fundraising goal. The Campus Expansion Report detailed the successful completion of the Health and Science and Simplot Agricultural Buildings, and outlined future plans including the Student Success Center opening in Fall 2026 and a new Boise Campus opening in Fall 2027. The major topic was the proposed acquisition and conveyance of the 90-acre Ford Idaho Center, which President Jones asserted aligns with the mission by expanding academic facilities and creating new program opportunities without requiring tuition increases or tax levies. Discussions on the acquisition covered operational agreements with OVG, conveyance details, water rights, and arrangements with the Snake River Stampede and Idaho State Draft Horse Show. A risk assessment noted reliance on OVG for fund management until the current contract ends in September 2027. Board members expressed strong support for the acquisition, emphasizing community benefits and improved resource access.

The meeting included the approval of the consent agenda items, which covered the minutes from the previous meeting, the Treasurer's Report, the Capital Projects Budget to Actuals Report, and a Conflict of Interest Disclosure. The President reported on the optimism for the new year, highlighting the significant milestone of the Ford Idaho Center property transfer completion from the City of Nampa and the initiation of integration efforts, including master planning and signage evaluation. Legislative planning was discussed in light of a projected state budget deficit exceeding $40 million, noting a mandatory 3% budget reduction directive, the exclusion of Enrollment Workload Adjustments in the proposed budget, and the cancellation of JFAC presentations. The Board deferred the approval of the Ford Idaho Center operating budget to the February meeting to receive more detailed revenue information. The Chair announced the selection of Board representatives for the Ford Idaho Center Advisory Committee.

The key discussion topic involved an action item to enter into Executive Session. This session was intended to consider records exempt from disclosure pursuant to Idaho Code, and to communicate with legal counsel regarding the legal ramifications and options for pending or imminently likely litigation.

The meeting included an Instruction & Student Success Update noting a 9th consecutive term of growth, an 8% increase in unduplicated student enrollment, and 767 students enrolled through Idaho Launch. The Math Department proposed presenting on its successful remediation program at the NWCCU conference. The Finance section covered the Annual Financial Audit, including the implementation of a new accounting standard for compensated absences (using LIFO for sick leave) and a delay in the federal program audit. The Board approved Resolution Number 2025-003, authorizing the issuance and sale of up to $24,000,000 in Annual Appropriation Certificates of Participation (COPs) to support development on the Boise Campus facilities, which involves a 30-year lease agreement with U.S. Bank. Discussions on the Ford Idaho Center conveyance focused on its strategic importance for supporting institutional growth, the plan to host large academic events, and the commitment to return the property to the City of Nampa in good condition if the agreement is terminated. The funding strategy for the Ford Idaho Center is based on three pillars: operational revenue from Oak View Group agreements, land lease partnerships, and a $10 million fundraising goal over six years, explicitly avoiding tuition or taxpayer rate increases to cover operating expenses. The College also plans to assume the Snake River Stampede Rodeo contract and develop new academic programs leveraging the center.

The meeting agenda included initial procedural items such as the Pledge of Allegiance, a review of the CWI Mission Statement, introduction of visitors, and public comment. Key action items scheduled for discussion and potential approval were the Ford Idaho Center Operating Budget Expenditure Approval and legislative planning updates. Other reports included the President's Report and the Chair's Report.