College board OKs $22 million budget

NORTH?PLATTE -- The Mid Plains Community College board of governors approved a $22.652 million budget Wednesday night, taking advantage of an increased valuation to lower the tax levy from 7.7274 cents per 100 assessed valuation to 7.5306.

With an average increase of 7.49 percent in valuation over the region, tax revenue is budgeted to increase $273,670 or 4.75 percent for the 2006-07 year.

The board approved the use of $7.048 million in property taxes to fund the budget, with 1 cent per $100 assessed valuation toward capital improvements.

Governors also increased the base limitation by 1 percent, carrying forward $3.036 million in unused budget authority.

That move allows the college to receive more restricted funds such as state aid and property taxes in the future if needed to meet future growth of the college area.

The college's general fund will be $16.2 million, which is up $712,020 or 4.6 percent from last year.

Board member Roger Wilson said following the public hearing that the budget and finance committee has been studying and discussing the budget since January, and he feels the final proposal is reasonable.

In other business, the board approved a statement in support of diversity in higher education to promote enrichment of the educational experience, personal growth, stronger communities, the workplace and the state's economic competitiveness.

The board of governors will meet at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, at McCook Community College.