The Penn State Board of Trustees will meet today to discuss the impact of the state budget impasse on the university -- an issue that has at least one trustee "concerned."
The board will also hear a presentation on a proposed increase in room and board rates for the fall 2010 semester, as well as discussions on the university's endowment, among other topics.
While the state passed its budget in mid-October, consensus on new revenue is needed before funds will be appropriated to state-related universities -- like Penn State and the University of Pittsburgh -- as well as to health care programs and museums, said Gary Tuma, press secretary for Gov. Ed Rendell.
Tuma added that the $200 million necessary to balance the budget could be raised by legalizing table games at state casinos.
Penn State trustee Keith Eckel said he's anxious about the budget's impact on the university.
"I'm concerned because a lot of the public believes that the issue is solved, but it's not resolved for state universities in the commonwealth," he said.
Reflecting Penn State's financial situation, the board will also address a proposed increase for room and board rates for the fall 2010 semester. This would affect housing and food service rates, Housing Director Conal Carr said.
"I think we have had [increases] every year for different reasons, but with the economy, I think we're trying to keep them low," Carr said.
Eckel said he is concerned with all costs for students -- but he trusts Penn State leaders know what to do.
Associate Vice President for Auxiliary and Business Services Gail Hurley, who will provide information on the proposed increase to the trustees today, said she would not comment until after her presentation. In addition, the state of the university's endowment will be discussed.
While he recognizes the university has lost money, Eckel said Penn State's endowment situation is more manageable than that of other universities.
"It is fortunate that our endowment has been well-managed," Eckel said. "In comparison, I feel we have fared quite well."
Beyond pressing financial issues, the board will address construction programs at Commonwealth Campuses.
"It is extremely important to maintain the physical plant and critically important to attracting best professors and students that we provide the best facilities possible," Eckel said.
But new construction projects aren't his main concern.
"My primary concern is the maintenance of older facilities," Eckel said. "In times of budget pressure, it is easy to overlook them."
