SB 1283 has been opposed by the Chancellor's Office, but has managed to overcome that opposition in the Legislature. The measure would create a new demand for community college capital outlay funds that have not been taken into account in the current funding package. The bill provides that funds for the new modernization program would be appropriated by the Legislature from general obligation bond proceeds approved after January 1, 2000.

The bill originally provided for an allocation based on student enrollment, but was changed to a project allocation system, similar to the K-12 program. The measure will provide 80% state funds with a required 20% local match. Eligibility will be determined by multiplying $3,110 times the number of FTES housed in permanent facilities more than 25 years old and those housed in relocatable facilities that are more than 20 years old. The $3,110 amount would be adjusted annually by the Board of Governors to reflect the change in the statewide cost index for class B construction. Project funds would be available upon approval of projects by the Division of the State Architect, and certification by the district regarding the required 20 percent local match.

The bill must still pass the Senate Floor for concurrence in Assembly amendments and secure the Governor's signature.

The CCFC 6^th Annual Conference – The $10 Billion Challenge – will be held Wednesday, November 10 and Thursday, November 11 at the Doubletree Hotel in Sacramento. There will also be an early bird reception on Tuesday, November 9 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. You should be receiving your registration brochures in the mail early next week. In the mean time you can also register for the conference on-line at www.caccfc.org.