Weekly News Brief | June 21, 2024
From the Office of Chancellor Whitney Yamamura, Ed.D.

I hope this message finds you well. I write to express my sincere gratitude for your diligent efforts and strategic decision-making that have led to the successful implementation of our first phase of Fiscal Stability Planning across the district. These plans, aimed at identifying efficiencies and reducing expenses, have proven crucial in navigating our financial landscape.

One of the significant achievements of these efforts has been the realization of a revenue surplus for the upcoming 23-24 fiscal year. This surplus, primarily generated through the closure of vacant positions and other prudent measures, is a testament to your commitment to fiscal responsibility.

However, as we celebrate this achievement, it is essential to exercise caution and foresight. The surplus generated will be prudently allocated to reserves. These reserves will be indispensable in the coming years as we continue to face challenges of deficit spending. It is imperative that we maintain a conservative approach to our fiscal management to safeguard the long-term financial health of our district.

In the fall we will continue with phase two of the Fiscal Stability plans. I encourage each of you to participate in these conversations wherever possible. There are limitations to continual belt-tightening and there will be a delicate balance to strike between fiscal prudence and ensuring that our programs and services maintain their excellence.

Rest assured that the Board of Trustees and I remain steadfast in our commitment to exploring avenues for additional funding and resources. We are dedicated to minimizing any impact on the exceptional student experience that defines our colleges. Your hard work and dedication are instrumental in upholding the quality and reputation of our educational institutions.

Thank you once again for your unwavering dedication and commitment to the Coast Community College District.

With gratitude,

Dr. Whitney Yamamura
Chancellor

Report from the Board of Trustees

On Tuesday, June 18, the Board of Trustees began with a public hearing on the tentative budget of 24-25 presented by Vice Chancellor Marlene Drinkwine. The presentation is available on BoardDocs for review.

The themes of presentation were:

• The Fiscal Stability Plans were critical to reducing deficit spending considering:
- Ongoing solutions are necessary to have an ongoing impact.
- Closing of vacant position provided a decrease of $3M in expenses and will used in future budget forecasts.
• State revenues have significantly declined with future years' funding obligations being uncertain.
• The increased fees for out of state students increased revenue by $4M and will be added to future models.
• It is expected that District ongoing unrestricted expenditures will exceed ongoing unrestricted revenues in 2024-25.
• Deficit spending is expected to continue based on current staffing and staffing cost structure, including health benefits and the CCCD's current agreement of full COLA transferred to salary schedules.
• Some restricted and auxiliary operations may require contributions from the Unrestricted General Fund to preserve services.

Following the hearing the Board recognized the milestone years of service achieved by 222 employees across the district, the retirement of 14 long time employees and the awarding of tenure for 13 faculty. These individuals were applauded for their dedication and invaluable contributions, which have enriched the educational experience for countless students.

Trustee President Lorraine Prinsky then administered the oath of office to Darla Nunez, the newly elected Student Trustee. Ms. Nunez, representing the student body, expressed her commitment to advocating for student interests and contributing to the governance of the district.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the approval of a site license agreement with OC Recycling. This agreement paves the way for OC Recycling to apply for a permit to operate the Recycling Center on the Orange Coast College Campus. Anticipated to commence operations in October, the recycling center will provide valuable environmental services for students and the community.

Each trustee shared personal reflections on the successful conclusion of the academic year. Reports included accolades for outstanding awards ceremonies and commencement exercises, underscoring the district's commitment to student success and community engagement.

College News

Schedule

Chancellor, Week of June 24
Dr. Yamamura is in the District, Monday through Friday.