Jason W. Emory

The board approved the initiation of men's and women's wrestling programs starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, including authorization for personnel hiring and a scholarship budget not to exceed $180,000. Additionally, the board approved the donation of the Tyler Street Residential Hall to the Borger Independent School District, pending legal review and compliance confirmation.

The Board reviewed the monthly financial report, noting strong revenue and typical expenditure levels. Reports on funding and donations were presented, highlighting cash and in-kind contributions for various departments. The Board discussed administrative scheduling and reached a consensus to trial an evening meeting time for upcoming sessions. Key actions included tabling the discussion on a proposed wrestling program, authorizing the evaluation of potential gifting or bartering for the Tyler Street property with the local school district, and adopting revisions to the Board policy manual. Furthermore, the Board approved a revised academic calendar and passed a resolution honoring Eugene "Gene" Rahll.

The Board discussed monthly financial reports, including grant funds and salary expenses, and reviewed the status of state appropriations and bond proceeds. They also reviewed a funding and donations report featuring updates on JET grants, the Skills for Small Business grant, and a greenhouse donation. Other key topics included a presentation on the enforcement of the tobacco-free campus policy, the review of TASB Policy Update 50, and a discussion regarding staffing restructuring within Student Services. The Board approved the resolution authorizing the issuance and sale of the Borger Junior College District Combined Fee Revenue Bonds, Series 2026. Additionally, the Board heard a presentation from guests regarding potential representation on the Board of Regents and reviewed a proposal for a land exchange to benefit the rodeo team.

Key discussions during the meeting included a review of the monthly financial report, noting the receipt of the first installment of state appropriations, adjustments to tuition and fees, and significant year-to-date insurance expenses due to the annual premium payment. The funding and donations report highlighted several recently approved grants, totaling approximately $630,000 for the year, with most supporting the RNEC and the Safety Center receiving a substantial grant. The Board discussed soliciting potential donors for the new residential hall, including naming opportunities, and the implications for offsetting project costs or bond proceeds. Updates to the 2025-2026 Employee Handbook were reviewed, specifying a 90-day employment requirement before vacation leave usage and discussing minor procedural changes. The Board also reviewed the training report and the 2025 Affordability and Access Report. Additionally, discussion occurred regarding proposed residential hall charges for both new and existing halls, necessary to generate auxiliary revenue for bond repayment.

Key discussions included a presentation from Condley and Company, LLP on the draft FY 2024-2025 Annual Financial Report and audit results. The Board provided direction regarding voting for the Hutchinson County Appraisal District Board of Directors ballot, instructing all allowable votes to be cast for David Speed. Significant deliberation occurred regarding residential hall fees, focusing on historical waivers, potential implications for athletic scholarship limits under conference/NJCAA rules, and exploring phased-in or partial housing scholarship options. Furthermore, the Board discussed the RNEC Board of Directors' proposed bylaw amendment to exclude Borger students, expressing concern over the negative impact on regional student access and partnerships, and provided guidance for communication on this matter.