January 2011 Board of Directors Meeting Recap

The regular meeting of the Heartland AEA Board of Directors was held on January 11, 2011. The majority of board members participated electronically due to inclement weather.

Approval of Agenda
Due to inclement weather, the agenda was amended to accommodate those participating electronically. The Board’s work session, 2009-10 audit review, accompanying action item and media and technology update were tabled until February’s meeting.

2011-12 Public Budget Hearing
No one was present to address the Board.

Public Forum
No one was present to address the Board.

Discussion Items
2010-11 Amended Budget and 2011-12 Proposed Budget
Mr. David King shared three central points about the amended 2010-11 budget and the 2011-12 proposed budget.
1. Budgets were built on existing knowns. During the budget development process every line item was reviewed with each budget manager to assure adequacy but not excess of funds. This helps us to maximize our resources. The budget was built on the current structure and organization of the Agency. While there may be changes, having every line item reviewed will provide assurance that there are sufficient funds available for the Agency’s programs and services. The proposed 2011-12 budget is based on zero allowable growth and just under one percent increase in enrollment.
2. Capacity from last year and this year will provide resources for next year. Due to a culture of austerity and American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds, the Agency ended last year with a surplus in educational services and media funds. These funds should allow the Agency to maintain its program and service levels for next year even though there may be a zero increase in allowable growth.
3. The Agency is positioned to maintain current staffing needs. The Agency’s enrollment has increased by one percent which will help pay for operating costs, however it will not cover increases in staff salaries, benefits or back-fill ARRA positions. When the ARRA funds end, the Agency will be able to manage due to capacity and flexibility from last year and the current year. There should be no need to reduce staff due to the loss of ARRA funds.

Comments:
• What do we project for next year in the way of staffing? We’re going to try to keep ourselves positioned to retain as much flexibility as possible knowing that we cannot predict what may happen with the legislature or in the economy. Unless the bottom falls out, there should be enough money to maintain staffing levels for another 4-5 years assuming the economy continues to improve.
• Thanks were given to Mr. David King, Ms. Sheila King and those staff who planned well for the use of ARRA funds. Thanks to the Board, too, who supported those plans as we see the voice of promise from that work.

Board Comments
• The Board work sessions have been postponed until February.
• Mr. Nels Turnquist and Dr. Earl Bridgewater reviewed the newly remodeled conference room at the Johnston Regional Education Center 6500 building and noted that classes were held for the first time there last weekend.