Romo predicts more budget cuts by June 30

City College could be forced to cut funds for the second time by June 30, Superintendent-President Romo said at Thursday's Board of Trustees meeting.

In anticipation of the budget crisis, Romo added that the hiring freeze will continue, and suggested increasing the number of temporary contracts.

Two weeks ago, the college was warned to expect about a $4 million deficit for the 2008-2009 fiscal year.

It has started to plan ways to balance its budget, including a 2 percent cut in departmental funds.

College leaders will propose their cuts at the May 8 Board of Trustee study session.

1. Property tax deficit could grow

California's community colleges were told in March to cut $84.4 million by the end of the current fiscal year because of miscalculated property tax revenue, an area of funding for community colleges.

Because of that shortfall, City College had to cut $1.1 million, but was able to absorb it due to unexpected revenue.

Still, the college could experience another cut before the next fiscal year begins July 1, as state leaders are expecting the property tax deficit to grow.

Chancellor Diane Woodruff warned community college leaders of a potential second cut, but was not able to give an estimate, Romo said.

Romo added that colleges may be protected from the one-time shortfalls turning into ongoing cuts under a provision of Proposition 98-a bill passed by voters in 1988 that establishes funding formulas for K-14 schools.

But Romo is doubtful that such shortfalls would be limited to just the current fiscal year.

"This is not a one-year phenomenon," Romo said in a Channels interview. He added that Gov. Arnold Schwarznegger could suspend Prop. 98 if the state's fiscal troubles continue to grow.

2. Adding more temporary contracts

In addition to continuing the hiring freeze, Romo suggested that the college increase its number of temporary contracts that offer one-year appointments.

"That will give us flexibility," Romo said.

Unlike a regular contract position, the college is not obligated to fund the position once the year is up, he added.

Romo also suggested waiving the "75, 25 rule"-a law that requires that 75 percent of credit classes are taught by full-time faculty and 25 percent are taught by adjunct faculty-but quickly added that Chancellor Woodruff said it was not possible.

Romo reiterated that any position offered before the hiring freeze started will not be affected.

"I don't believe it is appropriate to rescind offers already made," Romo said.