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 California
State University, Fresno President John D. Welty discussed the campus
budget at the annual Spring Faculty/Staff Assembly today (Jan. 20,
2009), noting that the university faces a “daunting” situation that will
bring “painful” moments.
Welty said the current fiscal year still has many challenges, and he is
focused onto ensuring that “we can cover salaries and mandatory
obligations in this constrained environment.”
“I am continuing the hiring freeze that was implemented in early 2008-09
and adding severe restrictions on travel and procurement activity. All
of us must make efforts to curtail spending and preserve campus cash
balances for all state, non-state and foundation funds,” he said.
Fiscal uncertainty continues into 2009-10, and Welty announced a campus
budget summit for Feb. 12. He and key university leaders will discuss
how the campus might deal with potential funding reductions, and he is
asking faculty and staff to offer suggestions. Budget reductions are
expected, and the president said he is already working with the vice
presidents to enact reductions in the most prudent and practical way
possible.
“Although the situation worsens by the day, the Legislature and Governor
talk, but don’t act to resolve it,” Welty said. “I urge all of you to
contact your State Senator and Assemblymember and implore them to act
immediately. We, as citizens – and our students – deserve and demand
action.”
Even though the state halted funding for thousands of public works
projects, including the Fresno State Library, Fresno State will be able
to open most of the library, but with sparse furnishings, Welty said.
“Because serving our students is our No. 1 priority, on Feb. 20 we will
open the new north wing’s collection level, first, second and third
floors, as well as the renovated south wing.”
Read President Welty’s entire speech at
http://www.fresnostatenews.com/2009/01/Spring09AssemblySpeech.htm
View the Assembly at
http://bulldogtv.csufresno.edu/channels/ChannelAssemblyVoD.shtml
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