Purdue University Calumet
Department Heads Meeting
Monday, November 5, 2001

Minutes

I.  Call to Order.  Chancellor Cohen called the meeting to order announcing the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the strategic plans for each campus and with the planning phase now being accomplished it is now time to start implementation.

Chancellor Cohen said the Trustees had also approved the Gyte building renovation.  Questioned was whether the Gyte renovation included the Annex.  Chancellor Cohen said Phase I is the most urgent need and that the Annex is planned for the 2003‑2005 legislative request.

II.  Indiana's Financial Situation.  Chancellor Cohen reported state revenue collections are down $160 million to date with the possibility of $600 million for the year.  He said, as a result, the President has frozen the technology funds, the 21st Century funds, and capital and R&R funds.  The Governor has imposed measures to save $300 million.  If loss goes beyond $300 million further measures will be required, including a possible 6% cut in our budget.  A review is planned in January and we should continue to reserve cash and cut back expenses.   A revised revenue estimate is expected November 14.  PWL strategy recommendation is to continue strong relationships with K‑12, don't use the blame game, don't whine, offer solutions.  Chancellor Cohen said that we need to be very careful that moneys raised for strategic planning are used for the plan only. 

III.  Strategic Plan ‑ Financial Plan.  The financial plan is intended to estimate priorities and finances.  Chancellor Cohen reviewed the items under the Operations/Programs area of the handout (handout is the last page of Strategic Plan available on PUC's web page).  He said the items are in priority order and that there was great agreement amongst the task force members with these priorities.  He gave the reminder of the principle ‑ that the plan is adjustable.  Student government leaders have had a general outline and are very supportive of the strategic plan.  There were questions on the increase in student fees for fist‑time students and whether the increase would apply to transfer students.  Mr. Newsom said the goal is to have reciprocity amongst the institutions and in the spirit of inter‑campus transfer policy students may be grandfathered; no decision has been made as yet.  Mr. Newsom said the $16 per credit hour proposed student fee increase does not include an inflationary amount and that it should be expected following action on the University's 2002‑03 operating budget.  Chancellor Cohen mentioned our need to be working hard on our enrollment management, organization of the enrollment process, and student retention.

IV.  Updates.

            A.  Housing.  Chancellor Cohen said we will be shadowing IUPU Fort Wayne's development activities on student housing which will allow us to use the process to our advantage and that we are in the process of engaging two consulting firms.  He said the goal is to have a decision by Spring 2002 as to whether or not we would move ahead in this area.

            B.  Parking.  Chancellor Cohen reported considering a study for a parking structure and location and that a report from the Chancellor will be given to the Parking Policy Advisory Committee.  The highlights would include accommodating 750 spaces; the proposed site is East of the Anderson Building, contingent to 169th Street; a self‑supported enterprise; and costing an estimated $140 for a permit.  This would be a capital project included in the 2003‑05 legislative request.  Chancellor Cohen said he will request the Parking Policy Advisory Committee to work with each governance group on campus for recommendations.

            C.  Student IDs.  Phil Brown reported that the committee presented recommendation to provide photo IDs for all students and staff to be implemented by Fall 2002.  Usage would include library card access, food service, and the bookstore.  Student government leaders hope to resolve recommendations this year.

V.  Use of Gift Funds, PRF Funds.  Chancellor Cohen referenced and suggested becoming familiar with Office of the Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services Memorandum T‑79 dated September 27, 2001, Appropriate Use of Purdue Research Foundation Discretionary and Institutional Program Funds, and said to consult with the appropriate vice chancellor if there are questions.  D. Korchek questioned whether funds that are designated to a particular program may be transferred from PRF to general operating funds; Chancellor Cohen said this transfer may be made.

VI.  Benefits Overview.  Mary Beth Rincon presented an overview of the Beneflex enrollment and referred to the Fast Facts Guide included in the enrollment packets for each employee.  M. Rincon reviewed what's new for 2002, changes in the Purdue 300 and Purdue 800 plans, and other changes in who may be covered, personal accident insurance, term life and AD&D changes.  Open enrollment ends November 16.  Information sessions for employees will be presented November 14 and 15.

VII.  Announcements / Q & A.

Gary Newsom reminded department heads of the invitation to the Town Hall Meeting on Friday, November 9, 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Center.  He urged people to attend for understanding of our role in upcoming planning and the provisions for possible budget cuts.

Wes Lukoshus announced this being the final two weeks for the Lake Area United Way campaign and PUC being over 90% of its goal.  He urged participation and to please get in your pledge cards.

Doug Sharp thanked everyone for their cooperation in the close of CCMail and the transition to GroupWise.  He also thanked the School of Education for their role in the transfer of the MAC program.  He announced that intermediate and advanced training workshops will be available for those who wish to attend.

Gary Newsom announced that fiscal‑year paid staff will have a thirteenth paycheck this year and to check your withholding exemptions and make changes if necessary.

Chancellor Cohen gave a reminder of the purpose of the monthly meetings and to share the output of information by taking back to your departments.