Sonja Blinka

The proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 budget was presented, reflecting a period of strategic transformation. Key projects from the 2023 general obligation bond are being advanced, career-focused programs are expanding, and industry partnerships are strengthening to meet workforce needs and drive regional economic growth. The budget aligns resources with strategies that promote student success and strengthen institutional performance, reflecting the priorities outlined in the new 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. The budget supports the implementation of COM's Academic Master Plan and continues progress on 2023 bond projects and the expansion of workforce programs. The college remains committed to keeping higher education accessible and affordable, with no tuition increase in more than 14 years, and continues funding for the COM Promise program.

The meeting included discussion and acceptance of reports from the Internal Auditor regarding advisory (consulting) services related to the Student Service Fee and assurance (audit) services for the Accounts Payable Department, follow-up audits on the Welding Technology Program's ventilation and on-site fuel supply, Chair's Travel Expenses for FY 2014, and follow-up procedures and reporting. The Audited Annual Financial Report for 2013-2014 was presented, noting an unmodified opinion on the financial statements and compliance with federal and state programs, a significant deficiency in internal control related to bank reconciliations and year-end close procedures, and no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in internal control over federal and state compliance.

The meeting addressed revisions to several local policies, including those related to the Safety Program (Fire Prevention), Site Management (Security), Employee Standards of Conduct, and Community Use of College District Facilities (Conduct on College District Premises). Additionally, the board reviewed and approved the College's Investment Policy and Investment Strategy, and appointed the College's Investment Officers. Revisions to Article I, Section 4 of the Board Bylaws were also approved.

The meeting included consideration of renaming the COM Firearms Facility to "The Lemuel "Lem" B. Powell Firearms Training Facility", updates on student and faculty activities, and discussion of consent agenda items, including FY 2014 salary increases and FY 2015 pay scales. The board also discussed the sale of foreclosed properties, appointment nominations, and acceptance of investment and financial reports. A presentation was given on transforming planning and assessment processes via the Student Success Council, and the board accepted the recommended Mission, Vision, and Values Statements for 2014-2017. An update was provided on Achieving the Dream Student Success Measures, and the president reported on the acceptance of the SACS follow-up report and the remodeling of the financial aid office and Veteran's Center.

The meeting included comments from the community regarding work study, financial aid, and facility rentals. The Board accepted a donation from BP/AMOCO Ex's. There was employee recognition for the EMS of the year. Committee reports covered resignations, temporary grant positions, discussion of the location of the Marquee Sign, and a change order for the Administration/Enrollment Center renovation. Policy reviews and potential actions were discussed, including policies related to termination of employment, contract dismissals, nonrenewal, resignations, assignment schedules, and tenure. The Trustees reviewed the 2009-10 Annual End-of-Year Report, an update on the Planning Process, and acceptance of 2010-14 Strategic Goals. Approvals were given for a Dell Computer Purchase and Data Cabling Services. Bond projects were reviewed, and action was taken on the bond amount for the May 2011 ballot. The Board also discussed meeting dates in November and December. Reports were given on Students, Faculty, Classified, and Professional activities. The Finance and Investment Reports were reviewed, along with minutes from various committee meetings. The Board received reports on Board and President Evaluations, the ACCT conference, and the ACCT National Legislative Summit. The President's Report included a Data Presentation, an AtD Update, and an Activity Report. The Board moved into Executive Session and upon reconvening, voted to retain Bracewell & Giuliani as bond counsel.