Helen Garcia

The meeting included the adoption of the agenda and reports on student recognitions, such as the All Arizona academic team recipients and the Ellen Lucari service to students award. Additionally, a presentation was provided regarding the annual audit for the fiscal year, covering the institution's comprehensive financial report and single audit report.

The board meeting included recognitions for the All-Arizona Academic Team and the presentation of the Ellen Licari Service to Students Award. The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report was presented, detailing a clean audit opinion and minor findings related to internal controls and federal reporting. Reports were provided by the Faculty and Staff Councils regarding mentorship initiatives and constitutional updates. The board also reviewed the draft fiscal year 2027 budget, discussed statewide community college activities, received updates on current events including college commencement and a data security incident, and approved the procurement of a high-fidelity simulation manikin for the health and medical professions program.

The board meeting included recognitions of academic team members and service awards, presentations on the annual comprehensive financial report, and status updates from faculty and staff councils. Key actions included the approval of an employee compensation package for the upcoming fiscal year, discussions on the presidential search, and reports on workforce development, college events, enrollment trends, and state legislative updates. Procurement for a new high-fidelity simulation manikin was also approved.

The Governing Board held a Truth in Taxation hearing to discuss a proposed property tax rate increase for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The Board received extensive public comment from citizens across multiple campuses, with many expressing opposition due to concerns over the cumulative financial burden of incremental tax increases on those with fixed incomes, requests for greater fiscal accountability and transparency regarding existing revenue, and questions about the necessity of the proposed levy. Following public comment, the Board voted to table the proposed tax levy for the upcoming fiscal year and to reconsider the matter in 2027.

The board meeting involved the adoption of a reordered agenda, followed by reports from the Faculty and Staff councils concerning textbook selections, academic calendar reviews, and mentorship program developments. Significant discussion focused on the FY27 employee compensation package, which includes wage increases for faculty and staff and adjustments to health and vision insurance contributions; the board approved the proposed salary schedule. Additionally, updates were provided on the successful presidential search, state-level legislative budget developments, the induction of students into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and the Higher Learning Commission's approval of new certificate programs in Manufacturing Processes and Systems and Industrial Maintenance and Mechatronics. The board also reviewed athletic program enhancements supported by community donations and received an update on the progress of baccalaureate program enrollment.