September 14, 2023 Minutes of Regular Meeting

The Board of Trustees of Illinois Valley Community College District No. 513 convened a regular session at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in the Board Room (C307) at Illinois Valley Community College.

Members Physically Present

Everett J. Solon, Chair

Jay K. McCracken, Vice Chair

Angela M. Stevenson, Secretary

Amy L. Boyles

Rebecca Donna

Jane E. Goetz

Maureen O. Rebholz

Elizabeth G. Boyles, Student Trustee

Members Virtually Present

Members Telephonically Present

Members Absent

Others Physically Present

Tracy Morris, President

Gary Roberts, Vice President for Academic Affairs

Kathy Ross, Vice President for Business Services and Finance

Mary Beth Herron, Director of Human Resources

Walt Zukowski, Attorney

Others Virtually Present

 

MOMENT OF SILENCE

There was a moment of silence to remember those who lost their lives on September 11; Dr. Debbie Fitzgerald, Nursing Faculty at Joliet Junior College; and Jan Biolchini, fiancé and partner of Jim Stevenson who was a Counselor at IVCC for over 35 years.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the agenda.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT

None

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the consent agenda, as presented.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

The following items were approved in the consent agenda:

Approval of Minutes – August 17, 2023 Board Meeting.

Approval of Bills - $1,670,177.96

Education Fund - $978,692.14; Operations and Maintenance Fund - $105,374.52; Operations and Maintenance (Restricted Fund) - $111,821.56; Auxiliary Fund - $174,490.55; Restricted Fund - $160,356.41; Audit Fund - $5,000.00; Liability, Protection and Settlement Fund - $127,733.04; and Grants, Loans, and Scholarship Fund - $4,709.74.

Treasurer’s Report

Personnel

Approved stipends for pay periods ending August 12, 2023 and August 26, 2023 and Part-Time Faculty and Staff Appointments August 2023.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Dr. Morris reported One Book, One College planted the Native Pollinator Garden; the wall of Presidents was relocated to outside Board Room and the former location will be used for student spotlights; the Marketing Office will move its new location soon; and there are new games in the Student Life Space. Student updates include seven dental assisting students took their national exam. Six passed on the first attempt and one passed on the second attempt. Four students have not yet tested. The golf team took two teams to the Governor’s State tournament and both teams placed.

Dr. Morris noted that Financial Aid is scheduled to be disbursed next week; 40 students have been awarded PATH Grant money with 15 more awards anticipated; the Dental Hygiene program had a site visit; the EMT Certificate was approved by ICCB; the First Responder Program grew from 8 to 11 participants; and the FY23 ICCB Program Review report was submitted. IVCC’s partnership with the YMCA for childcare provided 30 hours of care in August and Eagles’ Peak Food Bank had 44 visits to the pantry in August. Adult Education has enrolled 249 students so far with enrollment continuing. Adult Education classes have been reinstated in Mendota and classes in Spring Valley are now at 40 students. Dr. Morris reported a 100th Celebration Committee has been created and are preparing for our 100th Birthday.

Dr. Morris’ monthly updates included the continued work being done on the Illinois Manufacturing Workforce Ecosystem with the goal being to deliver 24,000 newly credentialed individuals to strengthen the workforce and revitalize manufacturing in Illinois. Dr. Morris reviewed the current committee structure on campus with a goal to improve communication, increase shared governance, and to optimize functionality of the committees. Dr. Morris stated Strategic Planning work continues with six sessions to discuss mission, vision, values, and goals held. Results of these sessions will be shared at the next Planning Committee meeting. Dr. Morris updated the Board on upcoming events and gave an overview of the history and purpose of the 21st Century Scholar Society.

STUDENT TRUSTEE’S REPORT

Ms. Boyles’ presentation highlighted the newest issue of the IV Leader and noted her first article appears in this issue. The first of three student focus groups for the Facilities Master Plan were held on Monday with a good turn out and lots of input from the student perspective on possible improvements. Spirit Day was held yesterday and was sponsored by the Student Government Association. Student Clubs and Organizations and many services were represented. There were many activities, games, prizes, and free food. Ms. Boyles noted that Mr. Tomasson did an amazing job organizing and preparing for the event.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

None

PURCHASE REQUEST – TOUCHNET INFORMATION SYSTEMS

It was moved by Dr. Donna and seconded by Ms. Goetz to authorize the purchase of the TouchNet Payment Software in the amount of $29,581for implementation and training and $61,479 annually for five years. Mr. McCracken asked if there are other systems available that provide the same services as TouchNet for comparative pricing. Ms. Ross stated there are and we did do comparatives. Nelnet, our current vendor, is not Cloud ready with no definite timeline on when they will be Cloud ready.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

BID RESULTS – LIGHTING AND SECURITY CAMERA UPGRADES

It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Mr. McCracken to accept the base bid from JB Contracting Corporation, Peru, IL in the amount of $747,935 for the Site Lighting and Security Upgrades to be paid from fund balance. Dr. Donna asked what type of security upgrades are included. Dr. Morris indicated this is our first phase and will primarily be external work aimed toward Truck Driver Training and some security cameras. Ms. Ross noted it will also include work to prepare us for more security upgrades.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

APPROVAL OF INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT RELATED TO PROPERTY TAX APPEAL BOARD FOR MENARD, INC. AND PERU MALL AMA LLC

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to adopt the Intergovernmental Agreement as presented relative to the PTAB complaint filed by Menard, Inc. and Peru Mall AMA LLC.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

Dr. Morris stated this is as we presented last month for Menard, Inc. but Peru Mall has been added. LaSalle County did not make the deadline to get on one of the documents but is still planning to share the cost.

APPROVAL OF STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES – PROJECT SUCCESS – LOCAL MATCH

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Dr. Rebhoz to authorize the approval of the annual $10,000 transfer from the Education Fund (Fund 01) to Restricted Funds (Fund 06) for the Student Services (TRiO) grant for FY2024.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

CONFIRMATION OF STAFF APPOINTMENT – SUE SMITH, DIRECTOR OF NURSING

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Dr. Boyles to approve the recommendation of Sue Smith as Director of Nursing at an annualized salary of $80,000, effective August 28, 2023. Dr. Morris thanked the Board for allowing us to fill this position in a non-conventional manner. Ms. Smith is doing a great job already. Dr. Rebholz noted Ms. Smith has a lot of experience including public health.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

APPROVAL OF BOARD POLICY 1.24 – DESIGNATION OF EMERITUS STATUS

It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Mr. McCracken to approve Board Policy 1.24 Designation of Emeritus Status as presented. Dr. Boyles asked if the Planning Committee looked at this first. Dr. Morris stated they reviewed and approved it electronically because of the timing. The policy is high level and designed as a frame. The procedure was included so they board could see where we are going with the guidelines. The other procedures will be included when the Planning Committee meets.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

DESIGNATION OF EMERITUS STATUS – DR. THOMAS J. MCCORMACK

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Dr. Boyles to approve the designation of President Emeritus status to Dr. Thomas J. McCormack.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

DESIGNATION OF EMERITUS STATUS – DR. FRANK JENSEN

It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Dr. Donna to approve the designation of President Emeritus status to Dr. Frank Jensen.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

DESIGNATION OF EMERITUS STATUS – DR. FRANCIS H. DOLAN

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Dr. Boyles to approve the designation of President Emeritus status to Dr. Francis H. Dolan.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

DESIGNATION OF EMERITUS STATUS – DR. ALFRED WISGOSKI

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Dr. Donna to approve the designation of President Emeritus status to Dr. Alfred Wisgoski.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

DESIGNATION OF EMERITUS STATUS – DR. JEROME CORCORAN

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Mr. McCracken to approve the designation of President Emeritus status to Dr. Jerome Corcoran.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

Mr. Solon pointed out the information items on pages 55-62 of the Board book.

TRUSTEE COMMENT

Mr. McCracken extended an invitation to the Canal Trail Connector event on September 27 at 6:30 pm at the Riverfront Bar and Grill. Dignitaries will include the State Transportation Director and Congressman Ray LaHood. This event supports the efforts to connect the Hennepin Canal and the I&M Canal. Please let Mr. McCracken know if you would like to attend.

Dr. Boyles reported the ICCTA training held last Friday included Dr. Namuo from Joliet Junior College talking about their 12x12x12 Program for dual credit students in the district to have 12 credits by 12th grade at a cost of $12 per credit. Discussion on this topic included ways to help enrollment but also the challenge of finding qualified instructors. The next meeting is November 10 and 11 in Schaumburg. The ICCTA Regional Meeting is next Tuesday at Kishwaukee College. The upcoming Governor’s veto sessions are October 24-26 and November 7-9 and are expected to be more active than previous years. Senate Bill 76, co-sponsored by Senator Rezin and Representative Yednock, is a bill that would end a ban on constructive advanced nuclear reactors that could have an impact on our area.

CLOSED SESSION

Mr. Solon requested a motion and a roll call vote at 6:22 p.m. to enter into a closed session to discuss: 1) the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body; 2) pending or imminent litigation; and 3) closed session minutes. 

It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Ms. Goetz to enter into a closed session.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried. The Board entered closed session at 6:25 p.m.

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Donna to return to the regular meeting.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried. The regular meeting resumed at 6:34 p.m.

CLOSED SESSION MINUTES

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Donna to approve and retain the closed session minutes of the August 17, 2023 Board Meeting.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

POSSIBLE STAFF APPOINTMENT – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE FOUNDATION

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the appointment of the Executive Director of the Foundation as presented.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

OTHER

Dr. Morris asked the Board Planning Committee to stay for a few moments so a meeting day and time can be determined.

ADJOURNMENT

Mr. Solon declared the meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.