March 12, 2002

BOISE STATE BUDGET REDUCTION PLAN APPROVED

Boise State will implement several cost-saving measures, increase student fees and reduce budgets to accommodate an estimated $9.34 million shortfall in the fiscal year that begins July 1.

The plan drafted by the university’s Executive Budget Committee was approved by President Charles Ruch today. The State Board of Education must allocate the higher education budget and vote on student fee proposals in April before the plan is finalized.

The plan was drafted in response to the state-mandated 10.1 percent reduction in the university’s general account budget. One of the key components is a proposed 12 percent fee increase, which will result in approximately $4.34 million in additional revenue. If approved, Boise State’s current $1,334 per semester fee would increase approximately $160.

The remaining $5 million shortfall will be made up through budget reductions and savings measures. Boise State will reduce its work force by 41 positions— 22 faculty and 19 staff. Of those, 10 will be laid off. The other 31 positions are currently vacant or will be vacant due to retirements.

The university also has instituted several savings programs, including moving to a 4-day week for summer school, closing buildings for a week during the Christmas break, consolidating building use and reducing energy costs by heating or cooling buildings fewer hours.

“We made every effort to preserve the university’s academic programs and keep personnel layoffs to a minimum,” said President Charles Ruch.

“While this budget means a reduction in the quantity of our services, it by no means diminishes the quality of what we provide,” he said.

More information:
Larry Burke, University Relations, 426-1577
Charles Ruch, President, 426-1491