HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
REGULAR BOARD MEETING OF THE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM
January 22, 1998
Minutes
The Board of Trustees of the Houston Community College System held a Regular Meeting on January
22, 1998, at the Heinen Theatre, HCC-Central, 3517 Austin, Houston, Texas.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
M. James Henderson, Chairman
Christopher W. Oliver, Vice-Chairman
Carol H. Smith, Deputy Secretary
Bruce A. Austin
Abel Davila
Herlinda Garcia
James R. Murphy
W. F. Russell
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT
John Fonteno, Jr., Secretary
ADMINISTRATION
Ruth Burgos-Sasscer, Chancellor
Elaine Adams, Vice-Chancellor, Educational Development
Sue Cox, President, HCC-Southwest
Sylvia Ramos, President, HCC-Southeast
Diana Morales Taylor, Chief Operations Officer
Pat Williamson, Vice-Chancellor, Institutional Development
Tom Kennedy, Executive Director, Public Information Office
OTHERS PRESENT
Arturo Michel, Bracewell and Patterson Other administrators, staff, representatives of the news media
and interested citizens
CALL TO ORDER
Mr. Henderson called the Meeting to order at 4:15 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.
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
INVOCATION
The invocation was led by Reverend Gail Williford, Minister of Evangelism and Discipleship, St.
PaulÕs United Methodist Church.
GREETINGS FROM CHAIRMAN
Mr. Henderson welcomed guests to the Regular Meeting and Swearing-In Ceremonies and recognized
public officials who were present including Vince Ryan, former City Councilmember; J. B. Whiteley,
Chancellor-Emeritus, HCCS; State Representative Diana Davila; Justice Greg Abbott, Texas Supreme
Court; Felix Fraga, City Councilmember; Roman Martinez, former State Representative; and State
Senator Mario Gallegos.
SWEARING-IN CEREMONIES FOR TRUSTEES
Mr. Henderson announced the swearing-in of four newly-elected Trustees: Carol H. Smith, District I;
Herlinda Garcia, District III; James R. Murphy, District VI; and Abel Davila, District VIII.
Justice Greg Abbott administered the Statement of Elected Official and the Oath of Office to Trustees
Smith, Murphy and Davila; and Representative Diana Davila administered same to Mrs. Herlinda
Garcia. Standing with Mrs. Garcia were her husband, son and friend, Roman Martinez.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR 1998
Mr. Henderson called for nominations for Chairman. Motion No. 753 - Mr. Russell moved that in
consideration of the job that has been done over the past year and the unique opportunities facing us in
the next year, the present officers be re-elected for 1998. Mrs. Smith seconded the motion. Motion
carried 6-2, with Trustees Austin, Garcia, Henderson, Murphy, Russell and Smith voting in support; and
Trustees Davila and Oliver opposed.
Board officers for 1998 will be M. James Henderson, Chairman; Christopher W. Oliver, Vice-Chairman;
John Fonteno, Jr., Secretary; and Carol H. Smith, Deputy Secretary.
COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
a. Christopher W. Oliver commented on the election of officers, stating that each Trustee represents
a constituency that must have a voice and that certain members of his constituency had expressed
their confidence in him as a Board Member. He stated that the standard policy is for Board
Members to rotate offices and felt that the previous action circumvented the process. Mr. Oliver
added there has never been a chairman from District IX and asked for clarification of the policy,
adding that he planned to run for chairman next year.
b. W. F. Russell noted there is no policy regarding the electing of officers. He added there has been
a precedent of electing the Vice-Chairman as Chairman; however, that precedent has not always
been followed and the BoardÕs action was proper and legitimate.
c. Abel Davila responded to Mr. RussellÕs comments saying there was not a policy, but there was
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
protocol. He observed that the Board minutes from the past two years indicated the ViceChairman is elected as Chair. He stated that a vote against a Board Member to sit in that capacity
is a vote against that constituency. Mr. Russell responded that he had no problem with everybody
serving as Chairman.
Mr. Davila thenexpressed appreciation to his parents; wife Diana; his minister, Ramiro Vasquez;
and other family members, friends, and colleagues for their support throughtout his campaign. He
also thanked Senator Maria Gallegos, Councilmember Felix Fraga, Rep. Diana Davila, TACHE
members, colleagues at TSU, his campaign manager Manuel Barrera; mentor Irene Porcarello
and Mrs. Herlinda Garcia.
d. Carol H. Smith remarked that her vote was not against Mr. Oliver. She thanked the other Board
Members who appointed her in April 1996, after the death of her husband, Roland W. Smith. She
noted, however, that it was gratifying to have been elected. She read the Vision Statement of
HCCS which was developed by the Board, commenting that this had influenced her decision to
run for election. She pledged her continued support to the Board, administration, faculty and staff
in light of this vision and service to students.
Mrs. Smith also expressed appreciation to her campaign workers; treasurer Patsy Sakowitz;
children Allison and Roland; parents Bill and Claire Haring; father-in-law Elo Smith; other
family members and friends; and to Roland for teaching her the value and rewards of community
service.
e. Herlinda Garcia noted that this occasion marked the eighth anniversary of the appointment of the
HCCS Board Members, upon separation from HISD. She welcomed new members Abel Davila
and James Murphy, expressed appreciation to sitting members, and paid special tribute to
members of the founding Board, Mr. Russell, Mr. Henderson and Mr. Austin for their eight years
of service. She stated that the BoardÕs mission is education and they are dedicated to this cause.
She expressed appreciation to her husband Arturo; son David who have dedicated their lives,
along with her, to the mission of service to the community as both educator and trustee. She paid
tribute to Rev. Gail Williford for her dedication to humanity and her sensitivity to the needs of
others. She recognized State Representative Diana Davila for her dedication to human issues
which has been the driving force of her legislative career. She expressed gratitude to Rep. Davila
for public service and community advocacy. Mrs. Garcia also paid tribute to her constituents and
pledged her continued commitment to them.
f. James R. Murphy gave thanks to God for being here tonight. He expressed appreciation to the
residents in District VI; friends and family members for their support throughout his campaign;
wife, Dr. Kathleen Murphy and sons Robert and Pace.
Mr. Murphy became interested in serving on the Board to promote workforce development and
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
training and pledged support to this objective. He added that he has found HCCS to be a better
institution than most people realize, with tremendously talented people addressing very
complicated problems. In closing, Mr. Murphy pledged his support not only to the residents of
District VI, but to all residents of the HCC District.
AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS
a. Presentation of Certificates of Election - Mr. Henderson presented Certificates of Election to
Trustees Smith, Garcia, Murphy and Davila.
b. Recognition of Outgoing Board Members - Mr. Henderson presented inscribed antique gold
eagles to outgoing Trustees A. J. Lynch and Francisco G. Medina for outstanding service and
read resolutions in their honor. Both were appointed to office in 1989 as founding members of
the HCCS Board and were subsequently re-elected to office. They both made the decision not to
run again in 1997.
c. Recognition of Chairman - Dr. Burgos-Sasscer presented a plaque and resolution to Mr.
Henderson for outstanding service as Board Chairman for 1997. Mr. Henderson accepted the
resolution noting that the System deserved credit for the accomplishments.
HEARING OF CITIZENS
Mr. Henderson gave preface to the Hearing of Citizens and asked if anyone were present to speak.
a. James Partsch-Galvan expressed concern over the earlier election of officers, the administration
at Central College, and the lack of access to shower facilities. He also stated that he had not
received an interview for a position he applied for several weeks ago. In closing, he congratulated
Mr. Davila on his election to the Board.
b. Arielle Luna welcomed the new Trustees and stated she had collected a number of signatures
from students at Central College who are unhappy with the bookstore. They are concerned that
the price of books and supplies are too high and the resale price too low, and that new editions
make resale impossible. Ms. Luna pointed out that many students have limited transportation and
must rely on the bookstore for their supplies. She requested that a committee be formed to
investigate the price of books.
Mr. Davila asked that the administration look into the concerns of both speakers.
MINUTES APPROVED AS SUBMITTED
Motion No. 754 - Mr. Oliver moved approval of the minutes as submitted from the Regular Board
Meeting of December 11, 1997. Mrs. Smith seconded the motion. Motion carried 8-0.
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Mr. Henderson called for consideration of the consent agenda.
Motion No. 755 - Mrs. Smith moved approval of the consent agenda with the exception of certain items
set aside for discussion or consideration after executive session. Mr. Murphy seconded the motion.
Motion carried 8-0.
The following items were approved:
I. INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS
●
Approved the purchase of training books and materials for the Independent Electrical Contractors
Apprenticeship Program, HCC-Central, from the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.;
●
Approved the purchase of a video/audio-editing-studio-headend system, HCC-Southwest,
Stafford Campus, from Industrial Audio-Video, Inc.;
●
Approved the use of Oracle Professional Services Group to provide HCCS with Oracle database
administration services. This is a temporary outsourcing contract for a period beginning February
6, not to exceed April 30, 1998;
II. LEASES OR CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES
●
Approved a Lease Agreement with PFP Post Oak, Inc., and authorized the Chancellor to execute
same on behalf of the System. The lease shall commence January 1, 1998 and continue through
august 31, 1998;
III. FINANCIAL REPORTS
●
Approved the Investment Report for the months of September, October, November and
December, 1997;
●
Approved the HCCS Investment Policy as amended;
IV. OTHER
●
Approved advertising signage in the left field pavilion section of the Astrodome for the entire
1998 baseball season; and
●
Approved the naming of the new facility at Northeast College as the ÒDr. John E. Codwell Hall,
Ó in recognition of the late Dr. Codwell, educator and community leader; adopted a Resolution
on behalf of Dr. Codwell; and designated this as standard nomenclature for naming future
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
buildings at this site.
LEASE/PURCHASE OF TRACTOR TRUCKS APPROVED
Motion No. 756 - Mr. Murphy moved approval of the lease/purchase of five used tractor trucks for the
Commercial Truck Driving Program from Ruan Truck Sales. Mrs. Smith seconded the motion.
Mr. Davila stated he had requested information from the Chancellor on how the College selects which
companies receive bids and which companies are capable of providing these vehicles. He added he was
concerned that only two bids were received.
Winston Dahse, Executive Director of Materials Management, responded stating that bids are advertised
publicly in various newspapers and distributed to minority associations and organization. He noted there
are very few suppliers of tractor trucks capable of supplying vehicles and meeting our guidelines. Mr.
Russell agreed, noting there are only a handful of dealers in the country capable of supplying this
equipment. Motion carried 7-0; Mr. Russell abstained noting an affidavit on file.
CONTRACT WITH MOSELEY AND ASSOCIATES APPROVED
Motion No. 757 - Mr. Oliver moved approval of the contract with Moseley and Associates, Inc. for
architectural and design services for the Educational Center Project, Highway 288 @ Airport Boulevard.
Mr. Russell seconded the motion.
Mr. Davila wanted to know the process used for the selection of architectural firms, if we received
requests for qualifications, and the matrix used in the selection of architects. Mr. Dahse explained that
bids are not necessary in the selection of professional services. In this case, the Board selected the
architect in October and this recommendation is to approve the actual contract which was developed and
reviewed with the attorneys.
He explained that the selection of professional services rests with the Board after reviewing the
recommendation of administration. Mr. Austin asked that the Board Members be provided with the
professional services contract act and the HCCS policy for selecting professional services. Mr. Dahse
acknowledged the request. Mr. Davila noted he had asked these questions prior to the Board Meeting,
but they had not been answered. Mr. Russell asked that the list of approved architects be distributed as
well. Motion carried 8-0.
LEASE AMENDMENT APPROVED FOR SPACE AT NORTHLINE MALL
Motion. No. 758 - Mr. Oliver moved approval of a lease amendment proposal with Northline Joint
Venture for the renewal of the leased premises located at the Northline Mall and authorization of the
Chancellor to execute the lease on behalf of the System. Mr. Davila seconded the motion.
Mr. Oliver asked if there were plans to expand the Northline Center. Dr. Burgos-Sasscer replied she
would like to because there is space there for growth. Mr. Oliver thought this would be a good idea
especially in light of the opening of the Magic Johnson theater at Northline Mall. Motion carried 8-0.
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
RESOLUTION APPROVING PROCEDURES FOR ISSUANCE OF BONDS ADOPTED
Motion No. 759 - Mrs. Smith made a motion to adopt a Resolution approving procedures for the
issuance of bonds in the amount of $23,500,000 for the purchase of real property and instructional
equipment and technology. Mr. Russell seconded the motion.
Mrs. Garcia asked for clarification of the recommendation. Diana Taylor introduced Jorge Rodriguez of
Coastal Securities, co-financial advisor, who explained the underwriter selection process. His company
sent out requests for proposals to thirteen underwriting firms. Out of this group, eleven RFPs were
received by the staff. Six firms were interviewed to determine the senior managing underwriter,
including First Southwest Company, Merrill Lynch, Dean Rausche, Chase Securities of Texas, A.G.
Edwards and Siebert Brnadford Shank & Company.
Each analysis was reviewed for cost to the District in terms of interest rates and costs of doing the
underwriting. Interviews were held and the staff came up with a ranking system and a recommendation.
Mr. Rodriguez stated the firm is recommending that the underwriting syndicate be comprised of the First
Southwest Company as senior managing underwriter, with Siefert Brandford and A.G. Edwards, as comanaging underwriters. There was no further discussion and the motion carried 8-0.
NEW OR UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Approval of Payment for Board
Member Expenses
Motion No. 760 - Mr. Oliver moved approval of reimbursement to Mr. Henderson for parking
fees and meal expenses incurred in meetings with other Board Members in December and
January. Second was inaudible. Motion carried 8-0.
b. CEO-Board Relations Workshop - Mr. Henderson reminded the Board of the upcoming retreat in
February and encouraged full attendance. He pointed out that the workshop were identified
through the Association of Community College Trustees which provides consultant services to
community colleges nation-wide.
Mr. Henderson asked that the Board Members review the legal guidelines manual prepared by
Bracewell and Patterson, paying special attention to the section on Board Member authority in
relationship with staff. This manual has been provided to all Board Members and will be utilized
at the retreat. Mr. Henderson noted that these workshop are invaluable, especially when all Board
Members are present.
Mr. Austin expressed concern that ACCT consultants may not be from comparable institutions
and may not understand the diversity of issues facing this Board. Mr. Henderson stated that these
individuals came highly recommended, adding that he had spoken with them both and felt they
had put together a productive agenda. However, Mr. Henderson offered to made any adjustments
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
necessary in order to ensure an effective and productive workshop.
CHANCELLOR'S REPORT
a. Financial Activity Report - Diana Morales Taylor reported $46 million in investments and bond
proceeds of $51 million. Her report indicated $52 million in year-to-date collection of revenues,
tuition and taxes and $40 million in expenditures, putting the System ahead by $12 million. There
were no questions and the meeting continued.
b. Introduction of Dr. Daniels - Dr. Burgos-Sasscer introduced Dr. Jack Daniels, the new president
of Central College. Dr. Daniels was selected after a nation-wide search and came on board
January 1.
c. Update on Enrollment - Dr. Burgos-Sasscer reported that the Mini-Session held over the
Christmas holidays was very successful with 2,237 students enrolled, an increase of 379 students
over last year. Semester enrollment is up 1.7%. Dr. Burgos-Sasscer plans an aggressive
marketing campaign in March with the Second Start Program since that is when the base year
starts. Our state appropriations are based on enrollment figures from March 1998 through
February 1999.
d. Coordinating Board Meeting - Dr. Burgos-Sasscer expressed her thanks to Trustees Smith and
Murphy for accompanying her to the Coordinating Board Meeting earlier . They were to give a
report on out-of-district issues regarding Spring Branch and Katy; however, the meeting ran long
and they had to return. Dr. Zachary Hodges, president of Northwest College, remained to make
the report which includes a recommendation to remove the enrollment cap in all out-of-district
service areas throughout the state. The Coordinating Board will not vote on the issue until the
April meeting.
Mr. Austin voiced concern over possible voter strength dilution by annexing an area into the
Houston Community College System and thought this recommendation should have been
brought to the Board. Dr. Burgos-Sasscer noted that the Coordinating Board understands that any
annexation move must have the approval of the institutionÕs board.
Mr. Davila also felt the Board should be informed before going to the Coordinating Board. Dr.
Burgos-Sasscer responded that the out-of-district initiative has been in her approved goals and
objectives for some time and she was asked to find a resolution to the out-of-district issues.
e. Hiring Policies - Diana Morales Taylor requested the BoardÕs consideration of reverting back to
the procedure of ratifying hiring decisions for all employees below the dean level. Discussion
yielded direction to the administration to clarify hiring policies and procedures and to present to
the Board a list of positions that must be approved by the Board before actual employment
begins. Dr. Burgos-Sasscer was granted authority to move ahead on certain positions.
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
f. Hope Scholarship - Mr. Murphy asked if the Hope Scholarship initiative had impacted
enrollment. Dr. Burgos-Sasscer stated we do not have that information at this point, because we
do not have access to income tax information. However, the Colleges have been aggressively
promoting this initiative. Mr. Henderson observed that the challenge is inform citizens of the
availability of the Hope Scholarship.
AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Finance - Mr. Austin reported that the Finance Committee met and subsequently spoke with all
Board Members. He recommended dissolving the ad hoc committee after the issuance of bonds
and naming a new committee to address a facilities and development plan. Mr. Henderson noted
that the ad hoc finance committee was appointed in December to address a specific issue and had
completed its work.
b. Naming of Buildings /Northeast - Mr. Austin asked that the family of the late Dr. John Codwell
be invited to the next Board Meeting for presentation of a resolution in honor of Dr. Codwell.
The Board approved the naming of the new northeast facility in honor of Dr. Codwell at the
January 22, 1998 meeting.
ADJOURNMENT TO CLOSED OR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mr. Henderson adjourned the meeting to Executive Session at 5:50 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. Henderson reconvened the meeting in Open Session at 6:20 p.m., and
entertained motions on matters pending.
PERSONNEL AGENDA APPROVED AS PRESENTED
Motion No. 761 - The Personnel Agenda was approved as submitted by a vote of 8-0.
ESTABLISHMENT OF NEXT REGULAR MEETING
The next Regular Board Meeting will be held on Thursday, February 26, 1998, at 4:00 p.m., at the
HCCS Administrative Center, 22 Waugh Drive.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to come before the Board, the Meeting was adjourned at 6:21 p.m.
Minutes Prepared by:
Linda Gray
Manager, Board Services
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HCCS Regular Board Meeting - January 22, 1998
Reviewed, Finalized and Submitted by:
John Fonteno, Jr., Secretary
HCCS Board of Trustees
Minutes Approved as Submitted:
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