'Prudent, yet positive' among budgeting goals for Mid-Plains governors

McCOOK, Nebraska -- Uncertainty of what the future will bring, particularly in regard to state funding, was primary among the concerns raised by Mid Plains Community College Board of Governors during a budget work session at Tipton Hall, on the McCook Community College campus, Wednesday evening.

Dr. Michael Chipps, President of Mid-Plains Community College expressed the importance of maintaining a positive outlook while budgeting prudently and being fully aware of the potential for financial pitfalls in the future.

"We need to be looking for a way to not be so surprised if the economy does not turn around," said board member Roger Wilson. Board member Ernie Mehl said "We need to look even further down the road at what is happening to the agriculture business around us."

The board seemed in agreement that a $500,000 contingency fund proposed for the upcoming budget would be instrumental in bridging potential financial gaps over the next two years.

A proposed policy regarding the "College Work Environment," specifically with regard to verbal or written threats or expressions of hatred towards any member of the college community, was also discussed during the work session.

The board agreed that there was a need for further policies in this area, citing the emergence of email as a primary means of communication.