Equalization brings in big money for college
By Nate Bloomquist
Apache Editor
Equalization, the concept that made college administrators optimistic last year, has turned into a substantial sum of money this year.
The college board trustees approved an $8.2 million tax levy of a total $10 million for 2000, an increase from the $6.2 million of a total $8.1 million in taxes received in the tax year 1999.The tax rate increases to .4395, which is six cents higher than last year’s tax rate of .3795.
IVCC is achieving equalization, which is possible because IVCC’s equalized assessed valuation divided by the number of credit hours generated in the fiscal year 1999 was less than the state average for community colleges.
The college hasn’t increased its operating tax levy for more than 30 years and has the second lowest operating tax rate in the state at 17 cents. Only Southwestern Community College, at 16 cents, has a lower rate.
This means a $90,000 home owner will pay about $18 more per year in taxes to support IVCC.
“We are pleased that our record enrollments have allowed us to qualify for equalization for the first time in the college history,” said IVCC President Jean Goodnow. “The board of trustees’ action tonight will allow us to continue to provide high-quality education and programs for all students.”
Frank Papke, vice president of finance, said the levy is needed to help cover the double-digit increase in utility costs, such as natural gas, and employee benefits such as medical insurance.
The board also voted to take advantage of nearly $100,000 in state funding to upgrade the school’s facilities, making them more easily accessible to the handicapped. Wheelchair lifts will be added to the Fireplace Lounge and Cultural Center auditorium as part of the project. In addition ramps and seating areas will be added to the D-225 lecture hall and the music room.
The improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act were short-term recommendations in IVCC’s 1998 master plan.Funding for the ADA work is allocated to the Illinois Community College Board by the state’s Capital Development Board and earmarked for campus accessibility. The money is then divvied between community colleges based on square footage. IVCC’s share is $91,265.
IVCC has also been selected to receive a $30,000 Special Initiative Grant for Information and Technology from the Illinois Valley Community College Board. The college will start a new program called, “IVCC is I.T.” to increase aware ness of high school students about careers in information technologies. Partnerships with businesses will be sought to expand student job shadow opportunities, institute a teacher/counselor workshop with an employer panel showcasing information technology career opportunities and allow teacher/counselors job -shadowing opportunities during breaks.
Papke said the college may have a shortfall because of the large increases in utility bills. He says the utility costs could be $200,000 over budget.