Patricia Claxton

Key discussions during the regular board meeting included the unanimous approval of the October 2025 financials. The Board unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Laurie Sharp as president of Western Texas College effective December 1, 2025, and the appointment of Mr. Ralph Ramon as interim president from November 17, 2025, to December 1, 2025. A motion to give all 772.11 votes to Mr. Rod Partain for the Scurry County Appraisal District Board of Directors election passed unanimously, as did the resolution on emergency closure compensation. A procedural matter regarding the Appraisal District's error, which resulted in overstated certified values by $71,875,697, was discussed. Additionally, updates were provided regarding the institution's eligibility for the 2027 Aspen Prize for community college excellence, noting five previous nominations and the potential $1 million prize.

The document outlines the compensation plan for Western Texas College employees, detailing the process for recommending and approving annual compensation plans, including wage and salary structures, stipends, benefits, and incentives. It covers the implementation of the compensation plan, job classification, and pay procedures for salaried employees. The plan addresses pay increases, mid-year pay adjustments for contract and noncontract employees, and guidelines for pay during emergency closures. Additionally, it specifies that the College District shall not accept gifts, grants, donations, or other consideration designated for use as salary supplements.

The meeting included an introduction of the men/women's basketball teams, men/women's cross-country teams, and the men/women's track and field teams. The board discussed the CEO Report under TEC, Section 51.253(c) and the CEO Certification to THECB under TEC, Section 51.258, as well as the 2025 Campus Safety and Security Survey and the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). Updates were provided on the Title V program, which is discontinuing certain funding, and its impact on the college. The enrollment report and small class report were presented, highlighting enrollment statistics and trends. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters, and a motion was passed regarding transition arrangements. The date of the next regular board meeting was set for November 10, 2025.

The Board of Trustees meeting included discussions on financial information, employment contracts, and the proposed tax rate. A resolution was approved for a lease agreement with The Huntington Bank for grounds equipment. Revisions to TASB Policy CDB were approved to increase capital assets to $10,000, and the summer small class report was also approved. The board discussed budget options, focusing on pay increase scenarios and the possibility of offering Social Security to employees. An enrollment report indicated increases in total contact hours and duplicated student counts, with growth in Continuing Education. An update was provided on the Presidential Search, detailing the process for selecting finalists and gathering input from faculty and staff.

The Board of Trustees meeting included an executive session to discuss the Presidential Search. No action was taken during the session. The meeting was then adjourned.