REGULAR MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM
January 23, 2003
Minutes
The Board of Trustees of the Houston Community College System held a Regular
Meeting on January 23, 2003, at the HCC System Administration Building, Second
Floor Auditorium, 3100 Main, Houston, Texas.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Abel Davila, Chair
Jay K. Aiyer, Vice Chairman
Yolanda Navarro Flores, Secretary
Herman Litt, Deputy Secretary
Bruce A. Austin
Herlinda Garcia
James R. Murphy
Christopher W. Oliver
ADMINISTRATION
Bruce H. Leslie, Chancellor
Vice Chancellors
Charles Cook, Educational Dev.
Gloria Walker, Finance & Admin.
Irene Porcarello, Institutional Dev.
College Presidents
Pat Williamson, Interim, Central
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
Michael P. Williams, D.Min.
Sue Cox, Southwest College
Margaret Forde, Northeast
Zach Hodges, Northwest
Sylvia Ramos, Southeast
Miles LeBlanc, General Counsel
Rosie Barrera, Communications
Willie Williams, Human Resources
OTHERS PRESENT
Arturo Michel, System Counsel, Bracewell & Patterson
Bob Bellomy, Hermes Architects
Jorge Rodriguez, Coastal Securities
Other administrators, staff, representatives of the news media
and interested citizens
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Davila called the Meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. and declared the Board
convened to consider matters pertaining to the Houston Community College System
as listed on the duly posted meeting notice.
PRAYER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mr. Oliver led the prayer and pledge of allegiance.
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 2
HEARING OFCITIZENS
Chairman Davila gave preface to the hearing of citizens and asked if anyone were
present to speak.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR 2003
James R. Murphy Elected Chairman
Motion – Mr. Aiyer nominated Mr. Murphy, with a second from Mr. Oliver
Motion – Ms. Navarro Flores nominated Abel Davila and Mr. Austin seconded the
motion.
Motion – Mr. Aiyer made a motion that nominations cease. Mr. Oliver seconded.
Motion carried 8-0.
A roll call vote was taken and Mr. Murphy was elected 5-3. Voting in support of Mr.
Murphy were Trustees Oliver, Murphy, Aiyer, Litt and Garcia. Voting in support of
Mr. Davila were Trustees Austin, Davila and Navarro Flores
Herlinda Garcia Elected Vice Chairman
Motion – Mr. Aiyer nominated Mrs. Garcia and Mr. Litt seconded the nomination.
Mrs. Garcia was elected by acclamation.
Christopher W. Oliver Elected Secretary
Motion – Mr. Aiyer nominated Mr. Oliver for Secretary and Mr. Litt seconded. Mr.
Oliver was elected by acclamation.
Herman Litt Elected Deputy Secretary
Motion – Mr. Oliver nominated Mr. LItt as Deputy Secretary and Mr. Aiyer seconded.
Mr. Litt was elected by acclamation.
COMMENTS FROM TRUSTEES
Ms. Navarro Flores was granted personal privilege to express appreciation to all the
men and women, including members of her own family, who are serving our country
in the military. She led a moment of silence in their honor.
The Trustees expressed appreciation to Mr. Davila for the leadership he has
demonstrated over the past year as Board Chair. He was commended for his ability
to strengthen relationships to advance the Board’s vision and for his strong sense of
commitment to the community.
RECOGNITION OF SPECIAL GUESTS
Dr. Leslie recognized special guests including Council Member Ada Edwards and
former Council Members Jew Don Boney and Felix Fraga.
-2-
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 3
PRE-OBSERVANCE OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Keith Harris presided over a program recognizing Black History Month, which will be
celebrated System-wide during the month of February. The HCCS Black History
Month Committee will hold its annual awards banquet and Senator Rodney Ellis will
be recognized as this years History Maker. Mr. Oliver brought welcoming remarks
honoring the spirit of diversity exemplified at HCCS. Joyce Olewe, reigning Miss
Africa Houston, presented Trustees with a “Kenta Cloth” symbolizing the people, the
land, wealth and prosperity and the blood of the African people. Trustees Austin,
Oliver and Williams (who was not present) received special recognition from Council
Member Edwards, Mr. Boney and Reverend Gwen Pierre, Assistant Minister,
Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church.
Council Member Edwards presented a
proclamation on behalf of Mayor Brown proclaiming January 23, 2003 as HCCS
Black History Observance Day in Houston, Texas. Keith Harris, Birtenna Bennett
and Dell McGee led a moving rendition of We Are the College. The HCC-Central
World Dance Ensemble and Abdul Jawad with Rainbow Color Sound provided
entertainment. Mr. Oliver and Mr. Austin gave closing remarks.
RECESS CALLED
Mr. Murphy called a recess at 5:40 p.m. to allow the Trustees to enjoy a buffet of
ethnic cuisine. The meeting was reconvened at 5:55 p.m.
AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS
Presentation of Chancellor’s Medallion
Dr. Leslie awarded the Chancellor’s medallion to Evelyn Burns, Department Head
and Radiography Instructor, who has announced plans to retire after more than 30
years with HCCS. Ms. Burns has served in a variety of positions in the Health
Sciences Program during her career and has taken a leadership role in the Faculty
Association, Bedichek Association and Association of Women Administrators. Ms.
Burns also served on the SACS Self Study Committee.
Medallions were also presented to the SACS Self-Study Executive Committee
including Mary Alice Wills, Director; Mike McCormick, Editor; Elizabeth Scherer,
Portal Manager and Lady Huffaker, Documentation Manager. The Chancellor also
acknowledged other members of the Self-Study team who were present. Dr. Leslie
announced that HCCS was recently granted reaccredidation from the Southern
Association and expressed his appreciation to the committee for their efforts.
Southeast College/AAMA Partnership
Gilbert Moreno, President of AAMA, reported on a partnership between AAMA and
HCC-Southeast in a program funded through the Gates Foundation and La Raza, to
assist high school students in earning an Associate of Arts degree or two years
worth of college credits in addition to their high school diploma. In October 2002,
AAMA’s George I. Sanchez Charter High School was selected as one of twelve high
schools to receive funding to pilot the Early College Program model that will be
implemented among 70 schools across the country over the next five years.
-3-
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 4
President Sylvia Ramos voiced her gratitude for the opportunity to partner with
AAMA in this program. Mrs. Garcia expressed appreciation to Mr. Moreno, Dr.
Ramos and the Southeast team for their efforts to provide alternative education
opportunities for at-risk students.
March of Dimes Campaign – Richard Jennings, Executive Director of the March of
Dimes Campaign, expressed appreciation to HCCS for ten years of support, adding
that over the last four years HCCS has been among the top 30 supporters in
Houston. The Trustees were invited to participate as honorary team captains in their
districts to challenge the community to support this worthwhile effort to help
Houston’s babies. Alex Warren is coordinating the March of Dimes campaign.
HEARING OF CITIZENS
Benito Maldonado addressed the Board about the educational needs of Latino
students and the need to provide greater access to higher education. Mr. Murphy
asked that a member of the administration meet with Mr. Maldonado to discuss his
concerns.
Kay York addressed the Board in regard to a letter of complaint she wrote following
her termination from employment. According to Ms. York, she has not received a
response from HCCS and asked the Board to investigate the matter.
CHANCELLOR’S REPORT
Introduction of New Staff – Dr. Leslie introduced Rosie Barrera, Executive Director of
Communications, Miles LeBlanc, General Counsel and Willie Williams Jr., Interim
Director of Human Resources and welcomed them to HCCS.
Financial Report – Ms. Walker gave the financial report for the month ending
December 31, 2002. She reported year-to-date revenues totaling $74.8 million,
5.6% above this time last year. Year-to-date expenses came in at $66 million or
15.4% above last year. Preliminary projections indicate that we will complete the
fiscal year with revenue on plan and expenses of $2.9 million below plan. She then
entertained questions from the Board.
A report on headcount vs. FTE report was added at the request of the Board.
However, comparative data will not be available until next month. Position control
tracking indicated that of the 153 full-time positions budgeted, 58 have been filled at
this time. Several Trustees commended Ms. Walker and her staff for sound financial
management.
Mr. Aiyer posed questions about exemptions and waivers. Ms. Walker stated there
was some concern over dual credit and refugee waivers, which seem to be
abnormally high at this time, and may have to do with coding. If waivers are
-4-
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 5
inappropriately administered, there is a disclaimer clause that allows us to bill those
students. An internal audit will be conducted of all waivers.
Mr. Oliver commented positively on the progress of the Hwy. 288 center, Willie Lee
Gay Hall, and expressed appreciation to the Chancellor and staff. He added the
community is looking forward to the opening with great anticipation.
Dr. Leslie was asked to have the legislative consultant team provide a monthly
legislative update at Board Meetings.
Mr. Litt requested a report on the utilization of part-time faculty, since spending in
this area is projected to exceed the budget by $6.6 million or 27%, given the current
run rate of expenditures. He also asked administration to consider initiating the
budget planning process earlier this year. Dr. Leslie responded that the process has
already begun and a budget calendar was approved. A budget forum is planned for
staff to review the potential impact of reductions in appropriations on the budget for
this year and next. Any proposed changes in tuition and fees will be brought to the
Board by March.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Mr. Murphy expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve as Chairman. He
plans to build on the accomplishments of previous chairs and continue working to
promote the spirit of inclusiveness begun by Mr. Davila. During his tenure, he would
like to see full implementation of the student success model and continued
improvement in fiscal management.
MINUTES APPROVED AS CORRECTED
Motion – Ms. Navarro Flores moved approval of the minutes from the Facilities,
Academic & Student Services, Bond and Legislative Committee meetings of
September 18, 2002; Finance Committee meeting of September 19, 2002; Regular
meeting of September 26, 2002; Marketing Committee meeting of October 9, 2002;
Facilities Committee meeting of October 16, 2002; Finance Committee meeting of
October 17, 2002; and the Regular Meeting of October 24, 2002. Mr. Aiyer
seconded the motion. Mr. Murphy asked that the minutes of the Finance Committee
of September 19 be corrected to reflect that Dr. Williams called the meeting into
executive session. The motion carried 8-0.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion – Mr. Aiyer made a motion to consider the Consent Agenda with the
exception of items set aside for further discussion or consideration following
executive session, including items B.9, B.10, B.11, B.12 and C.15. Mr. Davila
seconded the motion, which carried 8-0.
The remaining items were approved by consensus:
-5-
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 6
Purchase/Lease of Materials and Services
Approved ENCO Systems, Inc. as the vendor to provide a building automation
system (HVAC and lighting) including monitoring and service for the annual
amount of $336,655;
Approved and authorized the Chancellor to negotiate a contract with Murphy’s
Deli for food services in which the vendor will provide rental and build out at the
town & Country location;
Approved the purchase of SimMan, emergency patient simulator manikin, from
Laerdal Medical Corporation at a total cost of $30,807;
Approved the purchase of a Modular chemical Reactor System for the
Biotechnology, Chemical Laboratory Technology and Process Technology
programs at a total cost of $39,000;
Approved Sentigy to provide network security assessment services at a cost of
$142,500;
Approved Secure Content Solutions to provide network security equipment at a
cost of $43,750;
Approved SBC DataComm to provide network equipment and implementation
services at Central College at a total cost of $392,933.70;
Real Estate and Property Matters
Approved a three-month renewal of the lease at Palm Center, from January 1,
2003 until March 31, 2003, pending discussions with the Houston Small Business
Development Corporation (HSBDC) over a longer-term commitment;
Fiscal Matters
Approved the Investment Report for the month of November 2002;
Approved the Investment Report for the month of December 2002;
Approved the Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2002,
as prepared by the auditing firm of McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy, LLP; and
Other
Approved payment to the firm of Andrews & Kurth for professional consulting
services in the amount of $11,855.85.
FACILITIES ASSESSMENT SERVICES APPROVED
Motion – Mr. Oliver moved approval of the proposal for a Level II Facilities
Assessment and GASB 34-35 Infrastructure Survey and Assessment from Hermes
Architects at a cost not to exceed $338,204.00. Mrs. Garcia seconded the motion.
In reply to Mrs. Garcia, Mr. Murphy stated the Facilities Committee had discussed
this recommendation. Dr. Leslie summarized the discussion, stating that a capital
evaluation was completed last year and the firm of 3DI recommended that several
buildings be taken offline. The Level II assessment provides an opportunity to
review the details of each of our facilities. New facilities have been brought online
over the past several years, but have not been assessed. It is important to evaluate
the condition of these facilities both currently and projected. This assessment will
-6-
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 7
identify projects needing immediate attention, so they can be included in the capital
improvement plan. A software program was implemented last year to monitor and
manage facilities over the long term.
Mrs. Garcia recommended that administration present the findings of prior facilities
assessments and corrective action taken. She used the Felix Morales Building as
an example, stating that a prior assessment identified mold and other problems,
which have not been corrected. She felt that a historical perspective of past
assessments would be beneficial for future planning
Mr. Austin asked about computer-aided tracking of facilities. Ms. Walker stated the
Level II assessment would utilize a maintenance software package from CDI. We
have also purchased a system to track this assessment as well as work order
processing System-wide. Reports will be generated to constantly upgrade the status
of all facilities. As a result, future assessments can be done internally. She added
that five maintenance supervisors have been employed and a CAD position will be
filled soon. A new Executive Director of Facilities will be brought onboard next
month. Mr. Litt stated that an accountability system must be in place to ensure that
recommendations are executed and the Board is provided with feedback.
The motion carried 7-0. Mr. Aiyer was not present for the vote.
GED FEE INCREASE TABLED FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION
Motion – Mrs. Garcia made a motion to approve an increase in the GED testing fee
schedule beginning March 1, 2003. The second was inaudible.
Mrs. Garcia recommended that the item be referred back to the Finance Committee
and requested a report on the status of revenue bonds, debt service, impact on
student fees and plans to compensate for that loss. She expressed concern over
raising GED testing fees, stating that students taking these courses are generally
from underserved communities. In her opinion, alternative methods for revenue
enhancement should be sought, instead of raising student fees. Mr. Davila agreed,
adding that long-term strategies including annexation and a bond initiative were
needed to ensure sufficient resources.
Dr. Leslie explained the increase was necessary due to increased costs passed on
to us from the Educational Testing Service. HCCS administers the GED test to
students from all over, not just within the District. Mr. Litt recommended seeking
financial assistance from the Foundation and community groups. As the Board’s
liaison to the HCCS Foundation, he offered to follow up with the directors.
Motion – Mr. Aiyer made a motion to table the recommendation for further
discussion by the Finance and Academic and Student Services Committees. Mr. Litt
seconded the motion. Motion carried 8-0.
ADJOURNMENT TO CLOSED OR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Chairman Murphy adjourned the meeting to Executive Session at 7:10 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
-7-
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 8
in a subsequent Public Meeting. He reconvened the meeting in Open session at
8:35 p.m. and entertained motions on pending matters.
PUBLICATION OF NOTICE FOR ACQUISITION OF TOWN & COUNTRY
PROPERTY APPROVED
Motion – Mr. Davila moved approval of Item XI.B.12 concerning notice publication
for acquisition of Town & Country property. Mr. Litt seconded the motion. Motion
carried 7-0. Ms. Navarro Flores had already left the meeting.
PERSONNEL AGENDA APPROVED AS AMENDED
Motion – Mr. Oliver moved approval of Personnel Agenda items XII.A.1 – 9, with the
exception of consideration of amendments to the Chancellor’s contract. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Litt and was approved 7-0.
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MOLD REMEDIATION FINANCING APPROVED
Motion – Mr. Litt moved approval of agenda item XI.B.9, concerning adoption of the
mold remediation financing resolution. Mr. Aiyer seconded the motion, which carried
7-0.
CHANCELLOR AUTHORIZED TO NEGOTIATE PURCHASE OF WESTGATE
CAMPUS BUILDING
Motion – Mr. Litt moved approval of agenda item XI.B.10, to approve negotiation and
purchase of certain real property for instruction and administrative purposes for the
Northwest College campus, with the proviso that the Chancellor return to the Board
for approval of the purchase of the Westgate Campus building. Mr. Aiyer seconded
the motion, which carried 7-0.
BOARD CALENDAR
Dr. Leslie provided the Trustees with an annual calendar and abbreviated staff
directory developed by Irene Porcarello.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEXT REGULAR MEETING
Mr. Murphy announced the next Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees would be
held on Thursday, February 27, at 4:00 p.m. at the System Administration Building.
DINNER
Following adjournment, the Board will meet for dinner in the Chancellor’s
Conference Room on the 12th Floor, where the Board may generally discuss System
business, but will not take action on such business.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
-8-
Houston Community College System Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting – January 23, 2003 - Page 9
Minutes Prepared By:
Linda Gray, Executive Administrative
Assistant, Board Services
Reviewed and Submitted by:
Christopher W. Oliver, Secretary
Board of Trustees
Minutes Approved as Submitted:
June 24, 2003
-9-