Kristin D. Jones

The board meeting agenda includes the reorganization of the Board of Trustees, featuring the seating of a new student trustee and the election of board officers. Key business items encompass an AI strategy report, various consent agenda items related to financial reimbursements, purchasing of software and technology services, and human resources actions. Additionally, the board will address revisions to policies regarding instructor duties, faculty evaluation, and employee classification. New business includes policy updates on procurement, curriculum software, contract amendments, fiscal year 2027 compensation and benefits, and an employment agreement for the interim president.

The meeting included financial reports regarding revenue and expenditures, and the approval of various purchasing items such as simulation software, case management tools, media buying services, and infrastructure improvements for the Grayslake and Lakeshore campuses. The Board addressed human resources actions including new hires, personnel changes, promotions, and probationary period completions. Additionally, the Board approved academic calendars for 2027-2029, a revision to the Total Rewards Philosophy, a joint agreement with Gateway Technical College, and the acceptance of a grant from the Illinois Department of Agriculture for the Urban Farm Center.

The meeting includes discussions on the Responsible Bidder Ordinance and College Procurement Policy 712, an executive session to address specific legal or personnel matters, and a potential action regarding the engagement of an entity for search services.

The meeting includes reports from the Chair, Student Trustee, and President, specifically covering the third quarter fiscal accountability investment report and the fiscal year 2027 budget and plan proposal. Financial actions involve the ratification of bills, budget transfers, and the authorization of a budget hearing for the fiscal year 2027 budget. Purchasing items include contracts for firefighter personal protective equipment, instructional software for English as a second language, catering, investment advisory services, and automotive lifts. Human resources agenda items cover personnel changes, contract approvals, and academic year 2027 department chair and co-curricular appointments. New business consists of media buys and the second reading of revised policies regarding instructor duties, faculty evaluation, and employee classification.

The meeting focused on fiscal matters, including a mid-year fiscal accountability and investment report and the development of the fiscal year 2027 budget, which included proposals for tuition and fee increases. The board reviewed capital construction and deferred maintenance projects, specifically the Grayslake Campus Sports Complex and the Lakeshore Campus Urban Farm Center. Discussions included various funding options for these capital projects, including a proposed temporary modification of the Board Policy 704 fund balance requirement. The board also discussed the potential for field lighting at the Sports Complex, ultimately deciding to keep the item under consideration.