SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM
April 5, 2003
Minutes
The Board of Trustees of the Houston Community College System held a Special Meeting
on Saturday, April 5, 2003, at The Houstonian Conference Center, Cedar Room, 111 North
Post Oak Lane, Houston, Texas.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
James R. Murphy, Chairman
Herlinda Garcia, Vice Chairman
Herman Litt, Deputy Secretary
Jay K. Aiyer
Bruce A. Austin
Abel Davila (arrived 3:30 p.m.)
Yolanda Navarro Flores
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
Christopher W. Oliver, Secretary
Michael P. Williams, D.Min.
ADMINISTRATION
Bruce H. Leslie, Chancellor
Gloria Walker, Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration
Irene Porcarello, Interim Vice Chancellor, Institutional Development and
Deputy to the Chancellor
Pat Williamson, Interim President, HCC-Central
Sue Cox, President, Southwest College
Margaret Forde, President, HCC-Central
Diana Castillo, Interim President, HCC -Southeast
Miles LeBlanc, General Counsel
Rosie Barrera, Associate Vice Chancellor, Communications
OTHERS PRESENT
Arturo Michel, System Counsel, Bracewell & Patterson
Bob Bellomy, Hermes Architects
Dale Foster, President, Faculty Senate
Other administrators, staff, representatives of the news media
and interested citizen
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Murphy called the Meeting to order at 9:15 a.m. and declared the Board
convened to consider matters pertaining to the Houston Community College System as
listed on the duly posted meeting notice.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Dr. Leslie explained that the Board was convened to reach consensus on priorities for
developing the capital improvement plan. He stated the Board would not necessarily
approve a final plan at this meeting.
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Special Meeting - April 5, 2003 - Page 2
STRATEGIC POSITIONING FOR THE FUTURE – BRUCE AUSTIN
Mr. Austin distributed a paper entitled Strategic Positioning for the Future, which presented
a model for developing the Learning College concept. In his opinion, the present hub
system needs to be revamped. HCC students should receive the same quality of education
and exposure to core curriculum at every college. Instead of competition among colleges,
we need to foster a learning community with resources for the community and businesses
available at each college. Mrs. Garcia suggested formalizing Mr. Austin’s recommendations
through the Academic & Student Affairs Committee. His paper will be sent to Trustees not
present.
Dr. Leslie discussed the Board’s responsibility to ensure sufficient resources for the System
to achieve its mission. Facilities are a crucial resource and will become the Board’s legacy
for the future. The capital improvement plan will ensure that all HCCS facilities receive
necessary repairs, expansion of classrooms, labs and new facilities; student retention and
faculty space and a “Learning Hub “ for the community and business development. The
space norm for urban community colleges is about 110 sq. ft. per student. To reach that
level, HCCS needs an additional two million sq. ft. and more if we are to achieve the goals
of “Closing the Gaps.”
HISTORY OF THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT MASTER PLAN
Mr. Bellomy, system architect, gave a history of the capital improvement master plan since
1992, since the intent is to build upon previous studies. In 2001 a master plan and facilities
assessment was conducted by Hermes Architects and 3DI combining the 1999 and 2001
studies, producing a list of 24 projects. The projects were prioritized by administration and
presented to the Board for consideration.
Mr. Bellomy reviewed the $100, 200 and 300 million bond scenarios and how much square
footage would be achieved. He stated we are still below the 4.1 million GSF needed to
serve the growth requirement for 2003, but are moving in the right direction. Space
utilization planning will be completed as buildings are programmed. Mr. Bellomy responded
to questions from the Trustees.
PROPOSED LIST OF PROJECTS/PROJECT RANKINGS
Dr. Leslie reviewed the proposed list of capital projects as ranked by both administration and
the Trustees. Mr. Aiyer pointed out that previous priorities had changed over the past few
years and asked why. He was informed that some projects were completed and moved off
the capital improvement plan. Mr. Murphy asked the Chancellor to facilitate a discussion of
priorities and encouraged input from the college presidents.
The Trustees agreed to discuss projects ranked above and including the Southwest College
Learning Hub, which had an average ranking of 1.60. The projects are listed below. A
committee composed of business and community leaders will review the recommendations
made today.
Northeast College
Learning Hub - $13.6 million, 90,000 sq. ft.
Science, Engineering & Technology Bldg. – $11.5 million; 65,000 sq. ft.
Purchase and Expansion of Pinemont – $4.6 million; 20,000 sq. ft.
Central College
Renovate San Jacinto Building - $30 million; 172,000 sq. ft.
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Special Meeting - April 5, 2003 - Page 3
Southwest College
Stafford Parking Phase 1 – $2.6 million; 650 spaces
West Loop Phase I Expansion - $9 million; 70,000 sq. ft.
Stafford Classroom and Lab Building - $5.3 million; 30,000 sq. ft.
Learning Hub - $13.6 million; 90,000 sq. ft.
Missouri City - $6.9 million; 45,000 sq. ft.
Southeast College
Felix Morales Renovation - $3.5 million; 35,000 sq. ft.
Advanced Technology Center/Middle College - $6.9 million; 45,000 sq. ft.
Learning Hub - $3.6 million; 90,000 sq. ft.
Allied Health Program - $17 million; 60,000 sq. ft.
Middle College Concept
Dr. Leslie explained that the middle college is an alternative model for high schools growing
out of Terrence Bell’s “Nations at Risk” report. One model of particular interest to the
Annenberg Challenge is a concept whereby high school juniors and seniors are able to
complete an associate degree a year sooner. Students attend class at the college site. By
bringing students into a different environment, their attitude toward school changes. The
concept primarily targets students at risk. Dr. Leslie explained that at the East End site
technology project, HCCS would pay for a building and request the City to donate the land.
The project has emerged from discussions with HISD, which is considering three middle
colleges. The East End facility would accommodate the middle college, but would basically
serve as a technology building. Mrs. Garcia stated that the Board needed more detailed
information on the partnership for a better understanding of the project. Mr. Murphy asked if
HISD would provide any funding, since we are teaching their students in our facilities. Mr.
Litt suggested looking to other entities to fund capital projects.
RECESS CALLED
Mr. Murphy called a recess at 10:30 a.m. The meeting was reconvened at 10:45 a.m.
PRESENTATIONS FROM COLLEGE PRESIDENTS
The college presidents presented recommendations prioritizing capital projects. No
presentation was given for Northwest College, since Dr. Zach Hodges was out of town.
Northeast College – Dr. Margaret Forde, President
Dr. Forde explained that Northeast College serves an area of 100 square miles. Fifty
percent of residents lack a high school diploma or a GED. She stated they have exceeded
capacity at Northline, Pinemont needs additional classrooms and enrollment at Codwell is
overflowing into the Truck Driving School. At this time, childcare services are outsourced.
Learning Hub – The Hub will provide 20,000 sq. ft. of space for library services, instruction
and student services to encourage students to remain in school and matriculate to a college
certificate or degree.
Science Technology Facility – Due to the nature of programs offered at the Northeast
Campus, including fire technology, chemical lab technology, process technology, etc., a
facility is needed to provide high-end programs and provide the opportunity to work with
business, industry and senior institutions to engage students in research to discover next
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Special Meeting - April 5, 2003 - Page 4
generation technologies. This facility is critically important as a “center of excellence,”
transitioning students from one level to another.
Purchase of Pinemont Center – Dr. Forde recommended this purchase be ranked as a top
priority. An Alternative Certification program is in place there and doing so well that
additional space is needed. HCCS is among only a few community colleges granted
approval from Austin to offer this program and students are coming from outside the
northeast boundaries to attend. The Trustees reached consensus to place the purchase of
the Pinemont Center on the list of top priorities. Mrs. Garcia requested that the Trustees be
provided with an updated map of districts showing the boundaries and elementary, middle
and high school locations.
Dr. Forde responded to questions from the Trustees. Mr. Austin suggested implementing a
“wellness concept” within the Learning Hub at all colleges in collaboration with a fitness
center. Mr. Litt asked the status of the Northline Center and Dr. Forde informed him they
are redirecting students to the Northeast Campus through a partnership with Metro. If the
Northline lease were not renewed when it expires in six years, she would like to consider
renovating the Automotive Transportation Technology facility for use by those students.
This depends upon whether the Automotive Technology program is moved to the Northeast
Campus.
Central College – Pat Williamson, Interim President
Renovation of San Jacinto Building – Dr. Williamson stated this project is critical and would
generate enormous support for a bond, since it would be seen as part of the redevelopment
of the midtown area and receive support from business leaders. She also called attention to
the positive impact that support from the San Jacinto Alumni Association would have.
According to the Level II assessment, it may be possible to complete this project for less
than $30 million.
She stated we are going ahead with the physical plant through third party financing. In reply
to questions, she stated we are about three years away from spending the $30 million. She
estimated that construction would start in January 2006. Mr. Bellomy, system architect,
added that the Level II assessment provides training to HCCS staff to maintain facilities.
When asked about the structural integrity of the San Jacinto Building, he stated the building
is basically sound with a few exceptions. In reply to Mrs. Garcia, Dr. Williamson explained
that the Heinen Theatre is not part of the current renovation since it was completed
renovated in the 1980’s. Mr. Austin asked that administration provide the Board with a
history of the Heinen Theatre and the water intrusion problem as well as future renovation
needs. He also requested a profile on historic tax credit.
Mr. Litt reported that Richard Johnson, retired Houston Chronicle editor and President of the
San Jacinto Alumni Association, has asked him to chair a committee to ensure that their
memorabilia is protected during the renovation. Mr. Johnson has expressed a willingness to
lead the Alumni Association in support of a bond election. Mr. Litt noted there are literally
thousands of San Jacinto alumni in the Houston area.
Southeast College – Diana Castillo, Interim President
Learning Hub – Ms. Castillo stated that the Learning Hub is critical to the Southeast College.
It would provide an opportunity to have signature buildings to identify HCCS in the
community. The Learning Hub will provide space for library services, faculty workstations,
classrooms and components of the Student Success model to fully engage students.
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Students will also have access to areas for student government activities, study areas and
places to relax and eat – amenities currently not available.
Renovation of Felix Morales Building – This project would provide renovation of classrooms
and additional renovation of the physics and chemistry labs. She proposed building the
Learning Hub first, then vacating a portion of Felix Morales to reconfigure the space.
Mr. Murphy asked why the advanced technology center was ranked lower. Ms. Castillo
answered they have more pressing needs. There is currently no space to grow the nursing
and paramedic training programs, and no additional space in the health science center to
address training needs for the Medical Center. Mr. Murphy asked which would be her
priority and Ms. Castillo answered expansion of allied health space.
Eastside Annex – This facility would serve as a green space and provide childcare services
through partnerships. Administration was directed to investigate the feasibility of providing
childcare, since 65% of HCC students are women. The presidents expressed a desire to
provide childcare services by outsourcing this operation.
Southeast Middle College – Mrs. Garcia wanted to know who was in charge of this project
and was told it was Ms. Castillo, Irene Porcarello and Pat Williamson. Mrs. Garcia felt
strongly that the college president should be at the helm of the project.
The Trustees reached consensus to re-order priorities for Southeast College as follows:
1. Allied Health expansion
2. Technology/Middle College
3. Day care services – Dr. Leslie will look into outsourcing and bring a recommendation
Dr. Leslie explained that the Allied Health project depends on whether we have to build or
occupy an existing facility in the Medical Center. Mr. Murphy suggested utilizing space at
3100 Main as an Allied Health Center since it is close to the Medical Center and on the light
rail line. Another location discussed was the Nabisco plant.
Southwest College – Dr. Sue Cox
Dr. Cox stated there is a desperate need for increasing square footage per student at
Southwest, as they have 2,000 more students than other colleges. She listed her priorities
as follows:
Learning Hub in Stafford - 90,000 sq. ft. at $13.6 million and an additional 30,000 sq.
ft. in Stafford at $5.3 million
West Loop Phase 1 – 70,000 sq. ft. at $9 million
Missouri City project - 45,000 sq. ft. at $6.9 million
Staff Parking Lot - 650 spaces at $2.6 million
The Trustees reached consensus to add the Missouri City project to the priorities list.
REVISED LIST OF PROJECT PRIORITIES
As a result of discussion, the Trustees reached consensus on the following list of priorities
for the Capital Improvement Plan:
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Special Meeting - April 5, 2003 - Page 6
Northeast College
Learning Hub - $13.6 million
Science, Engineering & Technology Bldg. – $11.5
Pinemont – $4.6 million
Central College
San Jacinto Renovation - $30 million
Southwest College
Stafford Parking Phase 1 – $2.6 million
West Loop Phase I Expansion - $9 million
Stafford Classroom and Lab Building - $5.3 million
Learning Hub - $13.6 million
Missouri City – $6.9 million
Southeast College
Felix Morales Renovation - $3.5 million
Allied Health Expansion - $17 million
Learning Hub - $13.6 million
ADJOURNMENT TO CLOSED OR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Chairman Murphy adjourned the meeting to Executive Session at 12:03 p.m., notice having
previously been given, and reiterated by him, in accordance with Section 551.071 of the
Open Meetings Law. He stated that any final action, vote or decision on any item discussed
in Executive Session would be taken up in Open Session or in a subsequent Public Meeting.
He reconvened the meeting in Open session at 1:00 p.m. and entertained motions on
pending matters.
RECESS – Mr. Murphy called a recess at 1:00 p.m. for lunch in the Laurel Room, where the
Board may generally discuss System business, but will not take action on such business.
Minutes Prepared by:
Linda Gray, Executive Administrative
Assistant, Board Services
MEETING RECONVENED
Mr. Murphy reconvened the Special Meeting at 2:03 p.m., in the Cedar Room.
MIDDLE COLLEGE CONCEPT
Chairman Murphy stated the need to reach consensus on the Middle College concept. If the
cost and size is the same as Missouri City, then the Middle College should be added. Mr.
Aiyer expressed concern about the financial figures. Ms. Walker responded by giving
detailed information on the cost of the project.
ANNEXATION
Gene Locke and Dr. Richard Murray presented a briefing on annexation. Their presentation
included an overview of population growth and demographics in the service area and tax
base, the financial benefits and service implications of annexation and its procedures, voting
rights requirements, demographic and legal impact of annexation of each proposed district,
and examination of annexation options. Mr. Locke pointed out that Alief ISD, Katy ISD,
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North Forest ISD and Spring Branch ISD are possible areas for annexation and will conform
to HCCS’ mission and vision. The actual population numbers and population trends suggest
new projections on who comprises HCCS service area and where they live. Mr. Locke
explained procedures for annexation by election and annexation of city territory. The
metropolitan area is undergoing population shifts, demonstrated by the 2000 census,
significantly changing the demographics of the area and projections for the existing HCCS
tax district. Trends indicate future population growth driven by the Hispanic population, with
continuing moderate declines in Anglo populations.
Mr. Locke reviewed financial benefits and service implications, explaining that annexation
would provide new sources of revenue to HCCS, address future financial difficulties, spread
the cost of education, fund services for existing district and ensure continued service and
facilities for “Closing the Gaps.” Service implications include maintaining a commitment to
the mission and vision, addressing service needs of existing district facilities and programs,
providing facilities in newly annexed areas, accommodating increased institutional size and
achieving a successful bond election. Mr. Murphy requested that previous data on
annexation be sent to the Board.
The Trustees discussed their preferences regarding the future direction of annexation
efforts. Further discussion will be held at a future meeting.
Mr. Aiyer left the meeting at 4:05 p.m.
OTHER MATTERS
Committee Name Change—The Board reached consensus to change the name of the
Kitchen Cabinet to the Blue Ribbon Committee.
Mr. Litt recommended sending a memo to the presidents and staff, on behalf of the
Board, for their attendance at the Retreat.
Mrs. Garcia recommended organizing a reception for Mr. Murphy in honor of his
dedication and good will as chairperson.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 4:12 p.m.
Minutes Prepared by:
Erica Carmen DelValle, Secretary
Board Services
Reviewed, Finalized and Submitted by:
Minutes Approved as Corrected:
Christopher W. Oliver, Secretary
Board of Trustees
June 24, 2003
Reviewed & Revised
5/30/03 lg
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