SEMO workers voice budget worries

Southeast Missouri State University will look at issues ranging from increasing fees for processing transcripts to broad changes in employee benefits as it proceeds with multimillion-dollar budget cuts.

Southeast president Dr. Ken Dobbins painted a bleak picture for the financial future of the state and university Tuesday afternoon during the second of two forums aimed primarily at employee benefits.

"We're here because this is a major, major undertaking," he said during a presentation to faculty and staff in Academic Hall auditorium.

As the university outlines $7.76 million in budget cuts during the next two years, the administration is turning to faculty and staff for feedback. The university held two forums Tuesday, and a meeting today will focus on academic programs.

"Every one of us will have to come together and work together," Dobbins said.

Following his presentation about the state and university budgets, Dobbins left the room along with members of the media, who were not permitted to stay. Dobbins said he did not want his or the media's presence to stifle the conversation among university employees.

University spokeswoman Ann Hayes said between 250 and 300 employees attended the morning forum, which went beyond the scheduled hour and a half. The second forum also lasted about two hours.

Faculty Senate chairwoman Dr. Stephanie Chamberlain, who attended the morning forum, said she heard more concerns than suggestions from meeting attendees.

"They're obviously concerned about the reduction of benefits," she said. Chamberlain is a member of the employee benefits subcommittee, one of eight set up to identify $2 million in cuts. The subcommittees will identify cuts to areas like athletics, academic programs and scholarships. They will report recommendations to the budget review committee, which helps draft the budget every year.

The university held similar brainstorming sessions in January 2009 to prepare for lower state support. Chamberlain said there is a perception among faculty that the administration does not always follow up on their suggestions in forums.

"I think there is a sense that the forums are for appearance," she said.

During his speech, Dobbins said some of last year's ideas were carried into the current budget situation, while others were not feasible.

Subcommittee recommendations were posted to the university website in advance of the meeting. The review of employee benefits included estimated cost savings when insurance plans are bid out in 2011. The recommendations also outline changes to the medical plan's design and cost structure.

Ideas from last year's brainstorming sessions are included in the recommendation, such as a decrease in dependent tuition reimbursement and a salary reduction of 0.27 percent, one day's pay. Chamberlain said she understood the older ideas to be a last-resort measure.

In January, the university eliminated 24 positions, including 5.5 vacant spots. Dobbins has said there is the possibility of more personnel cuts as the review process continues.

"We just want to make certain when cuts are made, appropriate procedures are followed," Chamberlain said. A procedure for reductions during a financial emergency is outlined in the faculty handbook.

The budget review committee suggestions will be outlined at the March 25 board of regents meeting. Dobbins said the two-year plan will be finalized during fall semester.

"It's not good, but I believe, I truly believe we can come out of this a strong university," he said before concluding his speech.

abusch@semissourian.com

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