Serving the High Plains

Mesalands approves project request

The Mesalands Community College board of trustees approved a capital project request to extensively renovate its main building to make it more welcoming to current and prospective students.

The board approved a plan during its May 21 meeting to remodel a large portion of Building A into a student-services hub using $800,000 of previously appropriated state money, plus pursue additional funds for the project’s second phase that will convert the current business office into a store.

Kim Hooker and Brian Griggs, architects for Parkhill, Smith and Cooper firm in Amarillo, stated in a May 17 letter to college President John Groesbeck the configuration of many offices in Building A is “heavily compartmentalized” and “outdated.”

At the board’s meeting, Hooker said her firm’s plan removes many walls in favor of a more open setting and “puts students first.” The plan offers high-tech kiosks that detail what classes are available, what staffers can help, preparation and submission of applications and a hospitality area.

Offices for the cashier, financial aid, admissions, registration and advice still would be enclosed for private consultations.

The work also would renovate bathrooms on the west end of the building to make them handicapped accessible.

Hooker said she hoped to have bids for the first phase of the student-hub project by late December.

The project to convert the business office to a student store would be pursued at a later date, with the anticipation of funds appropriated by mid-2020.

In other action, the board of trustees:

• Passed a resolution to seek approval from the Higher Learning Commission to offer classes at the Otero County Prison Facility in Chaparral, Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility in Las Cruces and Penitentiary of New Mexico in Santa Fe.

• Heard a report from Tom Morris, director of student success, about the Higher Learning Commission’s visit last month for the college’s accreditation renewal. Morris said it seems likely Mesalands will be urged to have a more data-driven strategic plan, review its programs more frequently than the current six years and revamp its assessment of general education. The commission is expected to issue its findings in late May or early June.

• Approved its selection of trustees Jim Streetman and Craig Currell to the Mesalands Community College Foundation’s board of directors.

• Approved a date change for the board’s next meeting from June 18 to June 11. Groesbeck will be out of town in mid-June to attend the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming, where four Mesalands bull riders will compete.

• Approved an investment policy revision that the college will conform to the Uniform Prudent Investor Act, as recommended by its auditor.

• Approved a quarterly financial certification report to the New Mexico Higher Education Department.

• Heard an announcement from Amanda Hammer, vice president of administrative affairs, that she was chosen as chairwoman of Everyone’s Federal Credit Union in Tucumcari and did not anticipate a conflict of interest with the college in that role.

• Heard from Groesbeck the college soon will offer a contract extension to the owner of the Stampede Village housing complex. He said there would be no rent increases.

• Tabled the purchase contract for a 2019 Chevrolet van until it was determined whether the 15-passenger vehicle contains sufficient ductwork for climate control. The van contains a trailer hitch, trailer brake and vinyl floors for about $32,000, which the college intends to buy through the state-contract price. The college will use the van for its rodeo team and outdoor recreation events. Mesalands’ lease on its current minivan is slated to end in July.

• Took no action after a 15-minute executive session.