Lane Community College faces a projected $8 million shortfall next fiscal year. It’s raised tuition and is considering other ways to cope with the deficit.
The state has reduced its investment in higher education. That combined with lower enrollment at Lane has led to multiple years of budget cuts at the college. Brian Kelly, Vice President of College Services, says Lane is looking at ways to reduce expenses without cutting staff.
“We’re looking at partnering with outside interests for both food service and the bookstore.” Kelly says, “But in this proposal, any of the contracted full-time staff in those areas would be placed in other vacancies in the college. It’s not a perfect answer, but it protects our union members and keeps them with the college.”
Lane has experienced a drastic drop in enrollment since it peaked during the recession. Kelly says the college is trying to attract more students and urging state lawmakers to allocate more funds to higher education. Lane Community College holds the license for KLCC Public radio.
The Lane Community College Board meets Thursday, April 11th.
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