Chancellor John W. Bardo convened a town hall meeting Tuesday, Nov. 11, to discuss the impact of the economic downturn on the state of North Carolina and Western Carolina University.

Statewide, revenues are about $300 million behind projections – a significant deficit for the first quarter, said Bardo. The University of North Carolina General Administration has asked institutions including WCU to prepare for a 5 percent “hold back” this year and permanent budget reductions of 1 to 6 percent for next year.

Strategies to implement this year’s budget cuts, which are not permanent cuts, include delaying hiring, allocation of enrollment growth funding, and equipment purchases; reverting a portion of lapsed salaries; implementing additional utility conservation; restricting travel; and reducing operating budgets by about $590,000.

Bardo said deans, vice chancellors and directors will help make decisions regarding permanent budget cuts, and members of the university community will be asked for their input. The university’s strategic planning committee’s recommended budget priorities include developing the university’s brand and image; providing program infrastructure, compliance, business processes, diversity, initiatives and selected programs that support engagement; implementing the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan; and recruiting and retaining students.

“We will try to focus less on across-the-board cuts and more on minimizing disruption to core university functions,” said Bardo. “We will keep you informed as we know more both about the plans and about the magnitude of the state’s budget issues.”

Watch the town hall meeting about the budget (mp4)

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Last Modified: Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2008