Ryan Aiello

The special meeting was called to order after confirming a quorum was present and noting the absence of any signed-up public comment, either in person or online. The primary action taken was moving to enter into an executive session pursuant to RCW42.30.11101g, with a planned return to the regular session afterward. Following the executive session, a motion was made and seconded to adjourn the special meeting.

The Regular Session agenda for the meeting included reports from the Board Chair, an Accreditation report, and a Finance & Budget report. Constituent reports were provided by the Shoreline Classified Staff (WFSE), Associated Student Government (ASG), Faculty (SCCFT), and Faculty Senate. Action items included a first reading of the 2028-2029 Academic Calendar and fees for Fall 2026, approval of Faculty Sabbatical Leave Proposals for 2026-2027, and the appointment of an Administrative Law Judge. The Study Session focused on supporting immigrant and international students. Public comments extensively covered concerns regarding payroll errors affecting classified staff, the importance of retaining the Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) program instructor, and advocating for the General Motors ASEP program. The Finance & Budget report included YTD updates for State Support and Grant Funds as of December 31, 2025.

The opening remarks acknowledged the land acknowledgement commitment to truth and reconciliation, and addressed recent challenging world events, including state violence and a local abduction incident, encouraging community participation in resistance. Trustees noted ongoing institutional challenges such as state budget cuts and payroll issues, while commending staff efforts in seeking alternative funding (grants) and supporting student retention and enrollment. Trustees also discussed advocacy efforts with state legislators regarding specific bills. Public comments heavily focused on the importance and continuation of specialized workforce training programs, particularly the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) cohort and the Automotive Technology (GMET) program, citing critical industry shortages and the high quality of graduates produced by these programs. One public commenter requested reconsideration of a personnel decision.

The meeting began with the board convening in an executive session, followed by the regular session opening with a land acknowledgement recognizing the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish peoples. Trustees provided updates on various activities, including attending college events like the Clay Club holiday shopping kickoff, community forums, and the farewell to the 800 music building. One trustee highlighted concerns regarding federal lawmakers pushing back against selling student loans to the private market. Public commentary focused heavily on supporting the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program, specifically advocating against eliminating a faculty position (Nicole Lupinac) due to existing workforce shortages in medical laboratory science, and noting that local graduates are well-prepared. Other discussions involved budget forecasting related to the CTC link system change and noting progress in gubernatorial appointments for trustee positions.

The Regular Session of the Board of Trustees addressed several key areas. Discussions included reports from the Chair, Accreditation updates, and Finance & Budget review, which detailed the Fiscal Year-to-Date financial status as of October 31, 2025, and included action items related to State Support Funds reconciliations. The agenda featured several constituent reports from the Shoreline Classified Staff (WFSE), Associated Student Government (ASG), Faculty (SCCFT), and Faculty Senate. Action items included approval of a Facilities Rentals Rate Increase Proposal, Revision to the Board of Trustees Policies Manual, and a First Reading on a Budget Amendment for State Support and Grants Funds. Throughout the documented comments, significant discussion centered on the proposed Reduction in Force (RIF) of faculty/staff, particularly concerning the Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) program instructor, and concerns regarding past financial management and communication protocols were raised by union representatives.