METROPOLITAN STATE COLLEGE OF DENVER

CLASSIFIED STAFF COUNCIL MINUTES

November 9, 2002

11:00 –12:00

Attendance: D. Howey, L.Ward, M. Perea, J. Davidson, S. Cordova, G. Kennison, T. Calahan, L. Daubers, C. McQuigg,

S. Princehouse, L. Bousman, C. Johnson, R. Patarino, D. Hammett, L. Cruz, M. Simon, S. Tolmen, E.J. Rendon, D. Walker, S. Kincaid, L. Armon, S. Steinshour, I. Guski, D.J. McCall, E. Yan, R. Valesquez, N. Wilmot,

J. Schall, J. Becker, P. Gordon, D. Hernandez

Only one standing committee report was discussed. The others were bypassed for new business discussion.

1.  Elections Committee: Constitution, Bylaws and Elections: Section 2: The election of senators shall be held in May of each odd year and the newly elected senators shall take office on July 1. The term of a senator shall be two years. Senators may be elected to serve consecutive terms. With no term limits. If unable to complete their current term, the senator should notify the President of the Classified Staff Council in writing of such termination. Thus, the vacancy can be properly filled.

2.  Work Study program implementation guidelines: By passed for new business discussion.

3.  Furlough’s and Layoffs: Jim Becker discussed with Metro’s President Sheila Kaplan the rumors in current circulation about possible layoffs at Metro State, in light of the recent state budget deficiencies.

According to Jim, Dr. Kaplan states there are no plans “at this time.” He acknowledged that some state agencies have already furloughed their employees but that is not the case with Metro State. Some institutions have already laid-off both exempt and classified employees.

“The president needs to declare a fiscal emergency before she can offer voluntary furloughs to classified staff members because of state mandates,” said Tamy Calahan. The president has not at this time declared Metro to be in a fiscal emergency. Many ideas and plans have been speculated with regard to both exempt and classified staff. The voluntary furlough (for exempt) and voluntary permanent reduction in work hours (for classified) employees are such examples of plans. Both programs are voluntary and if you experience any coercion for a supervisor, please contact Jim Becker or Tamy Calahan immediately.

Negative concerns over staffing problems were expressed by several classified representatives.

Discussions of Metro’s layoff matrix were discussed in addition to “bumping” rights. All time served in state government counts, not just time at Metro. If you have any questions please contact either Jim Becker or Jim Davidson.

“Let’s not let our fears drive our actions,” said Calahan.

4.  Action is being taken by CCHE and Troy Eid, Executive Director Denver Personnel and Administration to begin legislative discussions on staffing plans for higher education. All classified staff members will be notified via email as meeting dates and times become available.

More information will be available at a later time, which Jim Becker will make available via email and through the Statewide Liaison Council and CSC websites. Send your suggestions and concerns to Jim Becker at

Meeting adjourned: 12:00

The next Classified Council meeting will be Friday,

December, 13, 2002, 11:00-12:00 Golda Meir House