Small Town News

Ul President discusses governor's holdback

---

In a letter to faculty, staff and students statewide, University of Idaho President Duane Nellis talked about the institution's steps forward to address six percent holdbacks announced by Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter.

For the University of Idaho, a six percent midyear holdback in FY 10 amounts to roughly $5 million from its general fund appropriations; and $1.5 million from Agricultural and Research Extension Service state appropriation. It also includes four percent hold amounts from Forest Utilization Research appropriation, or $22,300; and four percent from Idaho Geological Survey appropriation, or $30,700.

In the letter Nellis said university executive, faculty, staff and student leadership will review and refine an earlier preliminary scenario provided to the university's Board of Regents/State Board of Education and will develop a mid-year budget plan to manage operating expenses, capital outlay, vacant positions and salary/benefits. More information about this will be forthcoming.

Wrote Nellis: "I recognize our University's leadership across many units and locations has worked very hard to lessen the impact of previous budget reductions on our students, faculty and staff. And I will not sugarcoat the depth of the economic re-set that is underway as this recession continues to impact our state, nation and world. But I also want to be clear - to all of you and to our state's leadership - about the critical asset and investment that is the University of Idaho and the unique place it holds in the state - as its flagship institution, as its land-grant institution and as its nationally recognized research institution. The state's future is our work. We will continue addressing the short-term challenges that face us, but with a constant eye to the long-term, so that as we emerge, we will be - along with the state of Idaho - stronger for the future."



Copyright 2009 The Aberdeen Times, Aberdeen, Idaho. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from SmallTownPapers, Inc.

More from The Aberdeen Times