January 2011 Board Report

State officials have informed Illinois Valley Community College that $22.8 million in funding for the Community Technology Center project is moving forward, President Jerry Corcoran informed the board Tuesday.

“We’ve been advised by the Capital Development Board that our project was included on the list approved by the legislature last week for construction bonds,” said Corcoran, adding, “Everything is still on schedule.”

In a related matter, Corcoran said the college is seeking a $90,000 grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation to offset costs associated with the “closed-loop geothermal system” for the CTC.

“We’re optimistic about our application being viewed favorably,” said Corcoran. “Our board has allowed us to incorporate a number of energy-efficient features into the new building, sending a message across the district about our commitment to sustainability.”

Trustees also approved of CTC architects Basalay, Cary & Alstadt proceeding with the Phase 2 construction documents to 50 percent completion. Vice President for Business Services and Finance Cheryl Roelfsema said total architectural and engineering fees for phase 2 are estimated at $277,975. 

In other business, trustees approved:

  • An articulation agreement with Starved Rock Associates for Vocational and Technical Education (SRAVTE) for dual credit in graphic design technology.
  • The transfer of $15,000 from the ICCB Workforce Development Grant to the Small Business Development Center.
  • The appointment of Laurie Pittman as interim director of purchasing and the retirement request of Janice Sharp, cooperative work training/bridge instructor at Sheridan Correctional Center.

The board learned:

  • IVCC received a $6,000 grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for the recent gym lighting upgrades.
  • The college will pay architect Dominick Demonica’s firm about $9,800 for updating the master plan.
  • Northern Illinois University is working to bring all IVCC district high schools under the umbrella of the La Salle County High Speed Broadband Initiative. A memo from Ottawa Economic Development Director Reed Wilson updated trustees on the broadband implementation schedule.
  • By meeting all Early Childhood Program standards, IVCC’s Ace Learning Ladder program in Princeton had its accreditation renewed by the National Association for the Education of Young Children through February 2016.
  • IVCC’s Early Childhood Education program has been approved as a Gateway to Opportunity-Entitled Institution for the Infant Toddler Credential Level 4 by the Illinois Network of Child Care Resources and Referral Agencies. This allows IVCC students to qualify for the Infant Toddler credential.
  • Fall headcount was up approximately 2 percent and credit hours 3 percent.
  • Ottawa Center spring headcount is expected to exceed 500.