REGULAR MEETING
OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM
May 22, 2003
Minutes
The Board of Trustees of the Houston Community College System held a Regular
Meeting on May 22, 2003, at the System Administration Building, Second Floor
Auditorium, 3100 Main, Houston, Texas.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
James R. Murphy, Chair
Herlinda Garcia, Vice Chairman
Christopher W. Oliver, Secretary
Herman Litt, Deputy Secretary
Jay K. Aiyer
Bruce A. Austin
Abel Davila
Yolanda Navarro Flores
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
Michael P. Williams, D. Min.
ADMINISTRATION
Bruce H. Leslie, Chancellor
Jose Villarreal, Vice Chancellor, Economic Development
Gloria Walker, Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration
Irene Porcarello, Interim Vice Chancellor, Institutional Development, and
Deputy to the Chancellor
Margaret Forde, President, Northeast College
Zachary Hodges, President, Northwest College
Diana Castillo, Interim President, Southeast College
Sue Cox, President, Southwest College
Miles LeBlanc, General Counsel
Willie Williams, Jr., Interim Executive Director, Human Resources
Rosie Barrera, Associate Vice Chancellor, Communications
Edward Geiger (for Dr. Pat Williamson, Interim President, Central College)
OTHERS PRESENT
Arturo Michel, System Counsel, Bracewell & Patterson
Dale Foster, President, Faculty Association
Other administrators, citizens and representatives
from the news media
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Regular Board Meeting – May 22, 2003 - Page 2
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Murphy called the Meeting to order at 4:50 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. Litt led the prayer and pledge of allegiance.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Asian Pacific Heritage Month - Dr. Leslie introduced Gigi Do-Nguyen, Assistant Director,
International Student Services, and member of the Board of Directors of the Asian
Society. She introduced several students taking a Vietnamese language course offered
for the first time at HCCS. She presented the Board with a good-luck token and a
variety of Asian food in celebration of Asian Pacific Heritage Month.
Dragon Boat Race – Ms. Do-Nguyen congratulated Keith Harris, Denny Smith, Ian
Roberts, Nhi Ha and other students for their participation in the 2003 Dragon Boat Race
Festival held on May 17, 2003 at Allen’s Landing. The Houston Chronicle published a
picture of the HCCS/Gee & Associates Boat, which placed second in the race. Ms. DoNguyen presented a commemorative plaque to Chairman Murphy.
AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS
Phi Theta Kappa Recognition - The Chancellor recognized members and advisors of
the HCC Omega Sigma Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. The Chapter
was chosen as International Best Phi Theta Kappa Chapter at the Regional Conference.
In addition, the Chapter brought home Hallmark Awards in the categories of
scholarship, leadership, fellowship, and service. The Board congratulated the members
and advisors on their outstanding achievement.
Digital Community College Award – Irene Porcarello presented the Board of Trustees
with the Digital Community College Award plaque awarded by the Center for Digital
Education. The Center is a national research and advisory institute providing research
to educational government institutions to incorporate new technologies. HCCS was
recognized among seven leading colleges in the nation for adapting and utilizing digital
technologies.
Degrees and Certificates Award – Dr. Charles Cook reported that Gloria White, Texas
Higher Education Coordinating Board, announced at the recent Student Services Inservice that HCCS had the largest increase of any college or university in Texas in the
number of awards conferred, had the second largest number increase form 2001-2002
of community colleges in Texas in awarding associate degrees, and was the top Texas
community college district in the award of certificates in 2002. The Communications
Office will follow up with a news release.
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HEARING OF CITIZENS
Chairman Murphy gave preface to the hearing of citizens and asked if anyone were
present to speak.
Mr. Charles Cronen addressed the Board regarding actions taken by an HCCS
police officer. He wanted to know the appropriate person to contact in regard to his
claims. Dr. Leslie assured Mr. Cronen that he would receive a response.
Dr. Joseph McDade addressed the Board regarding the merger of the Arts and
Humanities Department with Intensive English at Northeast College. He explained
that the Faculty Senate passed a resolution to select a permanent Chair for this
department by the following month and urged that the interim Chair continue for one
year during the organization of such a large section.
CHANCELLOR’S REPORT
Student Success Model – Dr. Hodges presented a status report on the Student Success
Model at Northwest College. He discussed the focus on student learning in the
classroom and ensuring student access and success through comprehensive student
services. He introduced Dr. Gilda McFail, Dean of Student Development, who was
selected as “Outstanding Student Services Administrator” at the Student Services
Inservice, to discuss the progress of the Student Success Model.
Dr. McFail reported that the Student Development Office gives emphasis to the
Learning Corridor Initiative at the Spring Branch Independent School District and Spring
Woods High School, seeking to ensure the successful participation of traditionally
underserved students. Dr. McFail summarized some of the program components
including success teams; welcoming centers student success seminars and activities
such as career fairs, information seminars and career conferences. Dr. McFail
introduced Jeffrey Oliver with the Spring Branch ISD who recognized the Northwest
College team for continuing to nurture this partnership to ensure student success.
Financial Report - Gloria Walker presented the financial report for the month ending
April 2003. The report contained updated budget information in a format, which has the
full year adjusted budget and the HCCS consolidated revenue and expenditures. Ms.
Walker stated that her office is in the process of reviewing fund balances as a result of
the reduction in state appropriations and will present a long-term strategy in the near
future. Adjusted revenue projections were prepared to include the $4 increase in tuition
for the summer and additional anticipated receipts from ad valorem taxes. Expenses
and revenues are projected below the adjusted budget due to Continuing Education and
Contract Training; however, a remedy is being sought. Mrs. Garcia asked to meet with
Mr. Oliver and Ms. Walker to discuss budget issues and requested information on
Distance Education, including information on the number of courses being offered and
enrollment figures. She responded to questions and comments from the Trustees. Dr.
Cook was asked to provide a memo to the Board explaining tuition and fee waivers. Mr.
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Regular Board Meeting – May 22, 2003 - Page 4
Litt recommended that the Contract Training issue be referred to the Marketing
Committee.
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Board Calendar/Upcoming Events – Chairman Murphy discussed several changes to
the Board’s annual calendar:
Board Quarterly Evaluation to be postponed until August 2003, with a date to be
announced;
Committee of the Whole Meeting rescheduled for June 19, 2003, for discussion
of TSPR findings and other key issues;
Regular Board Meeting rescheduled for June 24, 2003, due to a conflict with the
annual ACCT Regional Conference;
Committee of the Whole Meeting of July 17, 2003 will be treated as a budget
workshop;
Board Retreat of July 19, 2003 will focus on “Board Self-Assessment”
MEETING RESCHEDULED DUE TO JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
Motion — Mr. Oliver made a motion to reschedule the Committee of the Whole meeting
on June 18 due to the Juneteenth celebration. Mr. Litt seconded the motion, which
carried 8-0.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES TABLED
At the request of the Chancellor, consideration of the minutes was tabled until the next
meeting.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion — Mr. Oliver made a motion for approval of the consent agenda with the
exception of items set aside for further discussion and/or consideration following closed
session. Mr. Murphy seconded the motion, which carried 8-0.
Approved Enhanced Public Awareness Program;
Approved Amendment to Contract for Chilled Water and Steam Service to HCCS
Coleman Campus;
Approved Non-Renewal of Contract with Bounty Island Corporation (Westwood
College of Aviation);
Approved Lease-Purchase Agreement for Town & Country, Formerly Babies R’
Us, and Order/Resolution Regarding Notice of Transaction;
Approved Budget Priorities;
Approve Contract with Fox Lawson & Associates, LLC, to Carry out
Compensation System Review and Revision;
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Regular Board Meeting – May 22, 2003 - Page 5
Approved Payment to Bracewell & Patterson for Professional Services Rendered
for the Period April 1, 2003 through April 30, 2003, in the Amount of $54,141.16;
Approved waiver of Board policies relating to the hiring of independent
contractors as full-time employees; and
Approved Interim Policy Revisions Relating to Non-Renewal, Dismissal and
Grievances/Complaints.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN TABLED FOR CONSIDERATION FOLLOWING
CLOSED SESSION
Dr. Leslie presented a summary of the Capital Improvement Plan including an
annexation strategy. He gave an analysis of the financial impact of the proposed
general obligation bond and annexation of areas in the HCCS service area. The G.O.
bonds would be used in constructing facilities that would bring in additional revenue and
in renovating existing facilities. The annexation of the four service areas outside the
District would provide a stronger financial position for the institution by increasing
operating revenue streams while simultaneously providing facilities in those areas that
are served with the initial additional tax base, and building facilities based on 72 sq. ft.
per full time student equivalent (FTSE). This strategy would bring those areas into the
System at the same level as our current district areas.
Dr. Leslie stated that research gathered by Dr. Murray and the legal analysis by Mr.
Locke indicate that new trustee lines could be drawn to preserve minority representation
and gain clearance from the Department of Justice. He also mentioned that annexation
coupled with the G.O. Bond would preclude the necessity of an additional debt service
tax required in the second issue of the G.O. Bond and still allow HCCS to build new
facilities in the annexed areas.
Mr. Davila made a motion for approval of the Capital Improvement Plan. Mr. Litt
seconded the motion. Counsel advised the Board to hold the vote, table the item, and
move into executive session for further discussion.
Motion to Reconsider — Mr. Davila made a motion to reconsider and to table the
Capital Improvement Plan for consideration following Executive Session. Mr. Aiyer
seconded the motion. Motion carried 8-0.
STRATEGIC PLAN APPROVED WITH EXCEPTION OF MISSION AND VALUE
STATEMENTS
Motion — Mr. Austin moved approval of the Strategic Plan. Mr. Oliver seconded the
motion, which carried 8-0.
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Regular Board Meeting – May 22, 2003 - Page 6
Substitute Motion — Mr. Austin made a substitute motion to approve the Strategic Plan
with the exception of the mission and value statements, which are to be considered by
the Committee of the Whole. Mr. Oliver seconded the motion, which carried 8-0.
CONSIDERATION OF CONSTRUCTION METHODS TABLED
Motion — Mr. Aiyer made a motion to table consideration of the design/operate/maintain
method of construction and operation for the new central plant for Central College and
the Construction Manager-at-Risk (CMAR) method of construction at Central College
until the next Regular Board meeting. Mr. Oliver seconded the motion. Motion carried
8-0.
In response to questions from the Trustees, Bob Bellomy, System Architect, explained
that design build is quicker, gives more selection criteria for a vendor, and eliminates
the hiring of architects and engineers to design the facilities. The Chancellor was asked
to send a memo to the Board listing the pros and cons of construction methods.
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT WITH WESTWOOD AVIATION APPROVED
Motion — Mr. Aiyer moved to amend the prior action item from the May 15, 2003
meeting of the Committee of the Whole, and authorize the Chancellor to approve the
settlement agreement and release form liability agreement with Westwood College of
Aviation, at an amount not to exceed $774,065. It was noted that the prior action item
contained a typographical error in the amount. Mr. Davila seconded the motion, which
carried 8-0.
Ms. Navarro Flores urged the Board to abide by established policy, which states that
any property to be acquired by HCCS must state the market value prior to Board
approval. Chairman Murphy concurred and advised compliance with policy for future
acquisitions.
ADJOURNMENT TO CLOSED OR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Chairman Murphy adjourned the meeting to Executive Session at 6:50 p.m., notice
having previously been given, and reiterated by him, in accordance with Sections
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
subsequent Public Meeting. He reconvened the meeting in Open Session at 8:30 p.m.
and entertained motions on pending matters.
PERSONNEL AGENDA APPROVED AS PRESENTED
Motion — Mr. Austin moved approval of the Personnel Agenda as presented.
Davila seconded the motion, which carried 7-0. (Mrs. Garcia had left the meeting)
Mr.
MOTION TO APPROVE PRINTING CONTRACT WITHDRAWN
Motion — Mr. Litt moved approval of Phillips Brothers as vendor for printing the 20032004 catalogs, at a cost not to exceed $152,516. Ms. Navarro Flores seconded the
motion, which carried 7-0. Following discussion Mr. Litt withdrew the motion.
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Regular Board Meeting – May 22, 2003 - Page 7
CHANCELLOR AUTHORIZED TO NEGOTIATE SETTLEMENT IN MATTER OF
GRIFFIN v. HCCS
Motion — Mr. Davila moved approval to authorize the Chancellor to negotiate and reach
settlement in Griffin v. HCCS under the terms discussed in closed session. Mr. Aiyer
seconded the motion, which carried 7-0.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN APPROVED AS AMENDED
Motion — Mr. Oliver moved approval of the Capital Improvement Plan.
seconded the motion. Motion considered as amended carried 7-0.
Mr. Litt
Amended Motion — Mr. Aiyer offered an amendment to the motion to include an
additional $4 million for a Middle College at the Drennan site, subject to HCCS Board
approval of a financial partnership with HISD and to direct the Chancellor to develop this
agreement, along with the Board Chairman, for the Board’s consideration at the June
24, 2003 meeting. Mr. Davila seconded the motion, which carried 7-0.
ANNOUNCEMENT
The Chancellor extended an invitation to the Board to attend the Houston A+ High
School Symposium at the James A. Baker Institute on the Rice University campus.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEXT REGULAR MEETING
The next Committee of the Whole Meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2003,
at 4:00 p.m., System Administration Building, 3100 Main, Houston, Texas.
The next Regular Board Meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2003, 4:00 p.m.,
System Administration Building, Auditorium, 3100 Main, Houston, Texas.
ADJOURNMENT
The Meeting was adjourned at 8:37 p.m.
DINNER
Following adjournment, the Board of Trustees met for dinner in the Chancellor’s
Conference Room on the 12th floor, where they may generally discuss System
business, but will not take action on such business.
Minutes Prepared by:
Erica Carmen DelValle
Secretary, Board Services
Reviewed and Submitted by:
Christopher W. Oliver, Secretary
Board of Trustees
Minutes Approved as Submitted: June 24, 2003
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