February 26 Minutes
REGULAR MEETING OF THE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE
February 26, 1998
Minutes
The Board of Trustees of the Houston Community College System held a Regular Meeting on February
22, 1998, at the HCCS Administrative Center, 22 Waugh Drive, Houston, Texas.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Christopher W. Oliver, Vice-Chairman
John Fonteno, Jr., Secretary
Carol H. Smith, Deputy Secretary
Bruce A. Austin
Abel Davila
Herlinda Garcia
W. F. Russell
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
M. James Henderson, Chairman
James R. Murphy
ADMINISTRATION
Ruth Burgos-Sasscer, Chancellor
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Elaine Adams, Vice-Chancellor, Educational Development and Interim President, Central
College
Sue Cox, President, HCC-Southwest
Zachary Hodges, President, HCC-Northwest
Sylvia Ramos, President, HCC-Southeast
Diana Morales Taylor, Chief Operations Officer
Pat Williamson, Vice-Chancellor, Institutional Development
Tom Kennedy, Exec. Director, Public Information
OTHERS PRESENT
Arturo Michel, Bracewell and Patterson
Other administrators, staff, representatives of the news media and interested citizens
CALL TO ORDER
Mr. Oliver called the Meeting to order at 4:10 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..
MINUTES APPROVED AS SUBMITTED
Motion No. 762 - Mr. Austin moved approval of the minutes as submitted from the Regular Board
Meeting of January 22, 1998. Mr. Russell seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0. (Mrs. Garcia had
not yet arrived)
CONSENT AGENDA TO BE CONSIDERED WITH AMENDMENT
Mr. Oliver called for consideration of the consent agenda as amended to reflect United Educators rather
than Lloyds of London as administration's recommendation as carrier for educators legal liability
insurance. Motion No. 763 - Mr. Austin moved to approve the consent agenda as amended. Mr. Russell
seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
CONSENT AGENDA APPROVED AS AMENDED
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Motion No. 764 - Mr. Austin moved approval of the consent agenda as amended, with the exception of
the item on a lease agreement with the Texas Medical Center, to be set aside for further discussion. Mr.
Russell seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
The following items were approved:
I. INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS
●
Approved an occupancy agreement between Northeast College Public Service Careers and the
City of Houston for conducting fire training for the City and surrounding fire departments at the
Houston Fire Academy;
●
Approved the annual agreement with HISD for continuation of the Tech Prep/Associate Degree
Implementation Project;
●
Approved affiliation agreements with Harris County Hospital District and the Museum of Health
and Medical Science for the clinical education of students in Health Careers Programs, Southeast
College;
●
Approved the annual software and courseware maintenance agreement for Plato software
purchased under the master license agreement with TRO Learning, Inc., for the period January
15, 1998 through January 14, 1999;
II. PURCHASING OF MATERIALS AND SERVICES
●
Approved the purchase of a Human Physiology Teaching Kit for the Stafford Campus, Southwest
College;
●
Ratified the purchase of an Avid Non-Linear Digital Editing System, HCCS-TV, from Industrial
Audio Video, Inc.;
●
Approved Greater Houston Publishers, Inc., as provider for HCCS 1998-99 College Direct Mail
Schedules;
●
Approved the purchase of AutoCad Software from Teaching Systems, Inc., for Northeast
College;
●
Ratified the purchase of a four wheel alignment system from R-Tec Tool and Equipment
Company, for the Transportation Training Center, Northeast College;
●
Approved the purchase of training books and materials for the Independent Electrical Contractors
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Apprenticeship Program, Central College, from the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.;
●
Ratified the purchase of training books and materials for the Emergency Medical Services
Program, Southeast College, from The Brady Company;
●
Ratified expenditures to-date for 1997-98 for the purchase of equipment for use by Board
Members in carrying out activities of the System;
●
Approved American Insurance Group Life as carrier for accidental death/dismemberment
insurance for Board Members;
●
Approved United Educators as carrier for Educators Legal Liability Insurance;
●
Approved Gulf Underwriters Insurance Company as the carrier for Umbrella Excess Liability
Insurance;
●
Approved Nutmeg Insurance Company (IT Hartford Group) as the carrier for Bodily Injury and
Property Damage Liability insurance;
●
Approved payment to Bracewell and Patterson for professional services rendered for the periods
November 16 - December 15, 1997; and December 16 through January 15, 1998;
●
Ratified the electronic media buy from Marrot Communications, development on an emergency
basis to increase enrollment for Spring 1998;
●
Approved the amended contract with Coastal Securities, Inc., as co-financial advisor of the
System to assist in financing projects in instructional technology and equipment and the purchase
of a site in the Southwest College area;
III. LEASES OR CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES
●
Ratified the rental of space at The Power Center, 12401 South Post Oak, for the Employee
Recognition Ceremony on January 23, 1998;
IV. FINANCIAL REPORTS
●
Authorized the issuance of $23,500,000 in revenue bonds to finance Board-approved capital and
instructional technology and equipment projects and pledged the General and Technology Fee as
revenue to service the debt;
V. OTHER
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●
Ratified acceptance of gifts and donations received to-date.
LEASE AGREEMENT WITH TEXAS MEDICAL CENTER APPROVED AS AMENDED
Mr. Russell moved approval of an annual lease agreement with the Texas Medical Center for a term of
99 years renewable for 99 years at the rate of $1.00 per year. The Texas Medical Center is providing
over 1.5 acres of land for the construction of a facility to house the Health Careers programs of the
Houston Community College System. Motion carried 6-0.
Dr. Burgos-Sasscer explained that although this is a new relationship, HCCS has been a partner with the
Texas Medical Center since 1977 and has occupied the Eastwood Health Careers Center since that time.
This is a milestone event, since we will actually be moving onto the Texas Medical Center site.
Mrs. Smith added the she, Mrs. Garcia and Mr. Henderson recently toured the Texas Medical Center as
guests of Dr. Richard Wainerdi, President and CEO of the Texas Medical Center, along with other
members of their Board and acknowledged that the new location will be a world class facility.
Mr. Davila acknowledged the Chancellor and her staff, including the President of Southeast College and
the Assistant Dean at the Eastwood Center, for creating partnerships with the Texas Medical Center.
Arturo Michel, counsel, advised adopting this item subject to final review and revision by the attorneys,
as negotiations have not been completed.
Amended Motion 765 - Mr. Russell made an amended motion to adopt the lease agreement with the
Texas Medical Center, subject to final review and revision by the attorneys and to authorize the
Chancellor to execute same on behalf of the System. Mr. Austin seconded the amended motion.
Amended motion carried 6-0.
HEARING OF CITIZENS
Mr. Oliver gave preface to the Hearing of Citizens and asked if anyone were present to speak.
a. Orell Fitzsimmons addressed the Board to provide information on the Service Employees
International Union (Local 100). The SEIU is conducting an organizing drive at Houston
Community College.
b. Socorra Vera introduced the officers of the Houston Chapter of TACHE. Ms. Vera explained
that TACHE is an advocacy group for issues pertaining to access and equity for Hispanics and
supports students, faculty and staff.
Officers for 1998-99 include Dr. Reynaldo Garay, president; Ventura Ramirez, treasurer; and
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Johnny Martinez, parliamentarian. Diana Castillo serves as the State Board Gulf Coast
representative and liaison to the local chapter. Ms. Vera stated that TACHE supports and
endorses the efforts of HCCS and it's vision and mission.
Mr. Davila expressed appreciation to the TACHE organization and called for an increase in the
number of Hispanic faculty members at HCCS.
c. James Partsch Galvan - Mr. Partsch-Galvan expressed concern over problems he encountered
during the application and interview process after applying for a position in Information
Technology and called for an investigation of the hiring process. He also commented that he did
not observe any Hispanic employees in Information Technology.
Mr. Austin observed that the System is presently reviewing all personnel procedures to ensure
that citizens do not experience these types of problems.
d. Martha McDougal, HCCS police officer, spoke in regard to concerns related to the grievance
process. Several Board Members expressed reservations about an employee involved in the
grievance process speaking in this forum. Counsel advised Ms. McDougal she could present
general information, but it would be premature to discuss specifics of her grievance. Ms.
McDougal chose to proceed with her address.
She stated she has been employed as an HCCS police officer for six years and is currently
stationed at Northline Mall. Ms. McDougal spoke of alleged problems with the leadership of the
police department in terms of fair treatment of all officers. Mr. Austin asked that in the future
speakers be advised of the appropriateness of speaking in this forum while involved in the
grievance procedure.
AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS
a. Faculty Recognition Award - Dr. Joanne Hsu was presented with the Chancellor's Medallion
for excellence in teaching. Dr. Hsu is a full-time psychology instructor at Northwest College who
has demonstrated a strong commitment to students, her discipline and the community.
She has received several teaching awards and is listed in "Who's Who in American Teachers."
Dr. Hsu developed the website for the Northeast College psychology department. Outside of the
classroom she devotes her time to volunteer work at two middle schools and the Chinese
Community Center. Dr. Hsu expressed appreciation to President Zachary Hodges, Dean Mary
Alice Wills, and the faculty at Northwest College for their support.
b. Presentation of Resolution Mr. Austin presented a Resolution naming the new HCC-Northwest
facility in honor of the late Dr. John E. Codwell, educator and community leader. Dr. Codwell's
son, Mr. John E. Codwell, Jr. accepted the Resolution on behalf of his father. Mr. Codwell's
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children, Dr. John Codwell III and Ms. Carolyn E. Codwell were also present.
The new facility will be known as "Dr. John E. Codwell Hall." The Codwell family expressed
their appreciation to the Board and administration for bestowing this honor upon their late father
and grandfather. Ms. Pat Prather, who researched the life of the late Dr. Codwell, also expressed
appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about one of Houston's native sons. (The
Resolution is included as an attachment to the Minutes)
c. Recognition of Elizabeth D. Rockwell -The Chancellor presented a plaque to Elizabeth D.
Rockwell for her leadership as the first chairman of the HCC-TV advisory council for 1996-97.
Her stature and community leadership provided stability to HCC-TV during its organizational
phase.
Ms. Rockwell has become a valuable asset as liaison between HCC-TV and the University of
Houston for community interest programming by way of the prestigious Discover U of H lecture
series which she established. Ms. Rockwell was accompanied by Sam Lassiter, Director of
Development of the University of Houston Law School.
d. Student Award - Kay King, Department Chair of Fashion Design, introduced Myrna Vallejo,
Fashion Design student, who recently won the "Best of the U.S." award in the Young Fashion
Creator's International Competition in Paris, France, for her original creation. Mrs. King
commented that this story has generated a lot of national attention to HCCS and the Fashion
Design Program.
NEW OR UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Report to the Coordinating Board The Chancellor explained that the Coordinating Board has
asked for a report on the status of out-of-district issues, specifically, HCCS' progress regarding
Spring Branch and the branch campus concept, to be presented at their meeting of April 23-24. In
addition to a written report, they have asked that Board Members be present to answer questions.
Other colleges dealing with out-of-district issues will also be present. The April Board Meeting
will be rescheduled to allow the Board's attendance at the Coordinating Board.
CHANCELLOR'S REPORT
a. Financial Activity Report - there were no questions regarding the report and the meeting was
continued
b. Report on Implementation of HB 1548 The Chancellor distributed a report showing the advantages and disadvantages of implementing HB
1548. This bill would allow persons residing in contiguous community college districts to pay in-district
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tuition. As Mr. Austin explained, the Board's original intent was to assist residents in Acres Homes by
allowing them to pay in-district tuition.
The Chancellor was directed to write a letter to Rep. Sylvester Turner explaining the original intent and
the heavy financial burden that would be imposed by full implementation with all contiguous districts.
c. Board Finance Workshop - Dr. Burgos-Sasscer reported that a date is being sought for a Board
Workshop to discuss financial issues, as directed by the Board at their recent retreat. She encouraged full
participation, as the issues to be discussed are critical to the future of the HCCS.
AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Legal - Mr. Michel stated he had a report for closed session.
b. Naming of Buildings/Southeast - Mrs. Garcia stated that the Board will be considering plans for the
expansion of Southeast College at the next Board Meeting and requested that the meeting be held in the
Carlos Garcia Fine Arts Center. The other members agreed this was appropriate and asked
administration to make arrangements.
c. Naming of Buildings/Northeast - Mr. Austin asked administration to send the policy on naming of
buildings to Mr. Davila so he can head a sub-committee to name the Truck Driving Transportation site
at the Northeast Campus.
d. Appointment of Committees Mr. Oliver asked for feedback from the other members on naming an ad
hoc finance committee or utilizing a committee of the whole. Dr. Burgos-Sasscer commented that the
upcoming Finance Workshop is for the entire Board.
Mr. Austin noted that the Board needed to examine the capital improvement plan and the facilities plan
in matrix form before taking further action. He also commented that the present Boardroom does not
have adequate space for the Board or citizens and requested that plans for renovation be revisited.
Dr. Burgos-Sasscer was asked to contact each Board Member prior to the workshop for any additional
financial concerns to be addressed.
ADJOURNMENT TO CLOSED OR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mr. Oliver adjourned the meeting to Executive Session at 5:25 p.m., notice having been previously
given, and reiterated by him in accordance with the Open Meetings Law. He stated 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. Mr. Oliver reconvened the meeting in Open Session at 7:12 p.m., and
entertained motions on matters pending.
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DEAN OF WORKFORCE POSITION TO BE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY
Motion No. 766 - Mr. Davila moved to amend the Personnel Agenda to take into separate consideration
the Dean of Workforce. Mr. Fonteno seconded the motion.
Mr. Davila explained that he wanted to consider this position separately because he believed the process
was unfair. He felt the administration needed to make sure that the same procedures were followed for
every position. Mr. Davila added that he was concerned with answers he received from administration.
The motion carried 5-0. (Trustees Austin and Russell had already left the meeting)
EMPLOYMENT OF DEAN OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, NORTHEAST COLLEGE,
APPROVED
Motion No. 767 - Mr. Davila moved to approve administration's recommendation for the Dean of
Workforce Development at Northeast College. Mr. Oliver seconded the motion.
Mr. Davila repeated his concerns, adding that he wanted to ensure a fair hiring process for every
position. He further stated that while we are pushing for diversity, we must also consider fairness.
Motion carried 3-2 with Trustees Garcia, Oliver and Smith voting in favor of the motion; and Trustees
Fonteno and Davila opposed.
REMAINING PERSONNEL AGENDA APPROVED AS SUBMITTED
Motion No. 786 - Mrs. Garcia moved for approval of the remaining Personnel Agenda. Mr. Davila
seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
NEGOTIATIONS AUTHORIZED FOR PURCHASE OF FROST FAMILY EASEMENTS
Motion No. 787 - Mrs. Garcia moved that the Board approve the purchase of the Frost Family easements
within the range recommended by the administration in closed session and should negotiations prove
unsuccessful, authorize an initiation of commendation proceedings to obtain the easements. Mr. Davila
seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
CLOSING COMMENTS
a. Dr. Burgos-Sasscer expressed appreciation to Alexander Warren, horticulture instructor, and
students for the donation of floral arrangements for the boardroom.
b. Mrs. Garcia expressed appreciation to David Kercheval, Director of Agriculture Science, for
arranging the grand entry ride for Board Members each year at the Houston Livestock Show and
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Rodeo. She also commended the faculty and students of the Horticulture Program for the display
at the Rodeo. She asked the Chancellor to plan an appropriate recognition for the instructors and
students of the Horticulture Program for the next Board Meeting.
ESTABLISHMENT OF NEXT REGULAR MEETING
The next Regular Board Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 26, 4:00 p.m., at the HCC-Southeast
Carlos Garcia Fine Arts Center, 2524 Garland, Houston, Texas.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to come before the Board, the Meeting was adjourned at 7:19 p.m.
Minutes Prepared by:
Linda Gray
Manager, Board Services
Reviewed, Finalized and Submitted by:
John Fonteno, Jr., Secretary
HCCS Board of Trustees
Minutes Approved as Corrected:
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