Coffeyville Community College and Independence Community College Boards of Trustees both vote in favor of beginning talks of consolidating the two schools.
The Boards of Trustees of both schools met separately Monday night and each held executive session to discuss the possibility of consolidating the two schools.
ICC's Board of Trustees also discussed the issue in executive session after a lengthy comment period in which they heard from multiple people. Many of those who spoke were faculty members with concerns about the potential merger. Here is a sample of what they had to say.
While most who spoke at the meeting were against consolidation, one person spoke in favor of the move. Former Interim Coffeyville City Administrator Tim Wilson says, there is one big reason many people are in favor of consolidation.
Following the public comment session, Trustees went into executive session to discuss the move. Board Chair Dr. Cynthia Sherwood calls for a motion following the discussion.
CCC voted on the measure first, passing the proposal by a 6-0 vote following a two-hour executive session. ICC Trustees were aware of the CCC vote before the motion was made. Sherwood stressed that this vote by both schools is merely the beginning of the process.
Sherwood says consolidation may be the school's best option.
Sherwood stressed that last night's vote is just the beginning of the process. Trustee Jeri Hammerschmidt says this is a first for community colleges in Kansas.
In other business, the ICC Trustees approve a request from the school to begin the process of implementing a new Industrial Maintenance Tech program, while also tabling a vote on the proposed welding program for another month due to concern about the associated start-up costs.
Also at last night's meeting, the ICC Trustees canceled their search for a new school president in light of last night's vote. Trustees agreed to retain current President Dr. Jonathan Sadhoo to guide them through the consolidation process. Sadhoo will also continue in his role as Chief Financial Officer for the school.
To listen to the entire public comment section of last night's meeting, go here.
