SOUTHEAST REGENTS OK ATHLETIC FIELDS PLAN

Southeast Missouri State University plans to construct new athletic fields at Sprigg and Bertling.

The improvements include three soccer fields, two recreational softball fields and an intercollegiate softball field. All the fields would have lights. Restrooms and a concession area would be built, along with parking for 200 vehicles.

The project could cost an estimated $2 million. The project, as well as several others, could be funded through the issuance of tax-exempt bonds, school officials said.

The Board of Regents Friday authorized the university to proceed with the first phase of the project, estimated to cost about $750,000.

Dr. Ken Dobbins, executive vice president, said the first phase involves construction of the fields.

That work is expected to begin later this summer so that the turf can be planted this fall. The fields should be ready for use in the fall of 1998.

The second phase of the project could cost from $830,000 to $1.2 million. It would include restrooms, lockers, bleachers, a press box, parking and field lighting.

The regents passed a resolution that would clear the way for the university to issue up to $20 million in bonds at a later date.

No final decisions have been made about the funding.

Dobbins said the university could issue bonds to fund construction of the athletic fields, as well as expansion of the Student Recreation Center, construction of a new student center and other projects.

Dobbins said school officials don't have any definitive plans yet for the other building projects or specific cost figures.

But he suggested $20 million should be enough to cover the costs.

Dobbins said it would be less costly for the university to issue bonds for several projects at one time rather than individually.

Student fees could be used to pay off the bonds.

In other action, the regents approved a $63.5 million operating budget for fiscal 1998. It includes pay raises of 4 to 4.5 percent for Southeast's employees.

In drafting the budget, Dobbins said, the university's Budget Review Committee considered the need for pay raises and more money for student labor, as well as funding of the school's strategic-plan goals.

The budget includes $230,000 to cover increased wages for student workers as a result of the minimum-wage hike that will take effect this fall.

About 64 percent of the budget is earmarked for salaries and benefits. The new fiscal year begins July 1.

The regents also approved auxiliary budgets of $16 million for 11 operations that are designed to pay their own way. They include the Show Me Center, University Center, campus housing and vending services.

Campus housing has the largest auxiliary budget at $8.75 million. The University Center and the campus bookstore have a combined budget of $2.5 million. Telecommunications operations are budgeted at $1.3 million. The Show Me Center will operate on a budget of just over $1 million in fiscal 1998.

Regents Action

Board of Regents Action

Friday meeting

Approved the fiscal 1998 operating and auxiliary budgets.

Authorized capital projects for fiscal 1998.

Authorized a capital budget request for fiscal 1999.

Approved plans for athletic fields at Bertling and Sprigg.

Passed a resolution that paves the way for the school to issue bonds to fund various capital improvements at a future date.

Passed resolutions honoring athletic achievements.

Approved academic programs for middle-school certification, health fitness administration, family nurse practitioner and a social studies emphasis for the master of arts in secondary education.

Approved a name change for the graphic arts certificate.

Heard a presentation from international students.

Received the 1996 annual report of the school's Department of Public Safety.