Elizabeth Mares

The committee meeting addressed curriculum management, including the discussion of the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management program, which will launch in Spring 2027. Members reviewed proposals for course deactivations, reactivations, and modifications, as well as new credit and noncredit program offerings. Significant discussions occurred regarding the online class size policy, with an emphasis on aligning online caps with face-to-face requirements and establishing exceptions for new instructors. The committee also covered the purpose and application of DEIAA questions in the Course Outline of Record (COR) and discussed strategies to manage the workload for curriculum updates across various academic divisions.

The subcommittee discussed the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) funding plan, with concerns regarding capital renewal cost planning for building maintenance. The committee reviewed the 2026-27 unrestricted general fund budget drivers, including projected rate increases and fiscal impacts. Additionally, the committee evaluated third-quarter financial progress reports for the 2025-26 fiscal year and reviewed the status of Measure P bond projects, including the PE building replacement, parking lot paving, and entrance improvement projects.

The subcommittee meetings involved discussions on several key operational and financial topics. These included a presentation on categorically funded programs, reviews of the 2026-27 tentative budget and various financial status reports (SBCC 311 Q3), and an examination of a five-year construction plan with considerations for project prioritization. Additionally, the committee reviewed the total cost of ownership funding plans, budget drivers for the upcoming fiscal year, and Measure P bond project updates, including contracts and interest income.

The committee reviewed progress on bond-funded projects, including the Physical Education building replacement and parking lot paving. Key discussions focused on project budget reports, construction waste diversion and recycling efforts, and the review and editing of the annual report. Additionally, the committee discussed potential adjustments to future meeting dates.

The Board of Trustees addressed a variety of items including resolutions recognizing awareness months for mental health, foster care, and AAPI/Desi American heritage, alongside classified employee recognition. Closed session actions included the denial of liability claims. Key business items involved the approval of Measure P bond project budgets and infrastructure improvements at Cliff Drive, various vendor agreements including commercial furniture, interpretation services, and labor market data software, and professional services for parking lot paving. The Board also reviewed and adopted several policy updates and approved out-of-state travel for faculty and students, budget transfers, and fiscal updates.