MARSHALL UNIVERSITY CLASSIFIED STAFF COUNCIL MINUTES
THURSDAY DECEMBER 13, 2001
JOHN SPOTTS ROOM – STUDENT CENTER 

President Barrett called the meeting to order at 1:14 pm and asked for discussion and/or corrections for minutes of last meeting.  Sherri Noble noted that regarding the seven temporary positions approved for hiring to meet construction deadlines had been approved by the Board of Governors not by legislation.  President Barrett asked for motion to accept minutes with amendment, motion was made and seconded.   

GRADUATE SCHOOL REPORT:  President Barrett noted that the Graduate School Council was attending another event at the Graduate School and will not be present to give a report. 

STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS:  Due to the holiday period many members were not present. As a result, committee reports were unavailable. Many committees had not planned to hold meetings until return from holiday break. 

ETHICS COMMITTEE:  Patsy Stephenson reported that the committee is continuing to meet to develop a blanket policy for ethics.  Each division of the campus, (i.e.) administrators, staff, faculty, and non-classified staff was given their section to review and critique.  Writing the proposal will be the most time consuming, but enforcing the policy, (if passed) will be the most difficult.  Therefore, the committee plans to make a recommendation to Faculty Senate and President Angel that an ombudsman be appointed to address ethical issues.  The committee will meet January 21, 2002. 

ACCE: Given by President Barrett:  President Barrett reported that Stephanie was in attendance of ACCE meeting and she had compiled materials for council members review.  Sherri Noble advised council that the salary schedule submitted by the Chancellor’s office was incorrect based on  information she had received from meetings earlier in the morning with Mr. Karlet and Dr. Denman.  The percentages regarding the increases for faculty and staff could not be correct because all pertinent data  had not been received in order for them to report an accurate calculation and different formats had been used to provide information.  Several things that should have been considered in computing the actual percentages for faculty and staff had not been included such as those faculty receiving promotions, reclassifications, etc. .  Not having all documentation needed therefore gives an incorrect computation of the actual percentages for faculty and staff.  Also, Sherri noted that Stephanie stated in her report that “a motion was made by the HEPC that following verification of the materials for accuracy, the report could go forward to LOCEA..” 

President Barrett reported to council that Governor Wise is proposing a 3% base cut from the 2003 budget.  He has asked all state agencies to submit their 2003 budget showing this 3% reduction.  The problem with this is by taking the 3% from the base does not allow us to recoup this money at any time. The Higher Ed office and Marshall plan to submit their report with strong justification as to why Marshall should be exempt from this.  Discussion has surrounded certain areas that may be affected strongly if this would come into play:
        ·          Raising tuition
        ·          Open positions not being filled or banked to be filled at a later date
        ·          Increase again of PEIA falling on employees
        ·          Raises being placed on hold possibly for indefinite period of time 

Sherri emphasized to council that this is “just an exercise” at this point in time.  However, Governor Wise should clarify his intention in the upcoming address to the state in January. 

Sherri Noble informed Council also that review of the 37.5 workweek is being discussed and possibly a 40-hour week could be implemented.  At this time Sherri is tracing the history of the 37.5 workweek, when it was established, what bill it fell under, etc. The overall concern is if they implement the 40-hour workweek will our pay scale reflect this.    Sherri will report back to Council as soon as she has further information on this matter.   

Sherri noted that should the 7 Skilled Craft Specialist positions recently approved by the Board of Governors as one-year temporary positions if needed  to be extended for a longer period of time would have to have Board approval.  Sherri informed Council that the recent advertisement gave wrong information and stated the following “Subject to termination with 30 days notice if performance satisfactory and if funding is sufficient.”  Sherri contacted Ed Grose and Layton Cottrill regarding this, and in turn, Mr. Stephens was also notified as well as Mr. Allman of the Physical Plant so that necessary steps would hopefully be taken to correct this and provide accurate information.  Mr. Stephens did note the error was made from his office. 

President Barrett reported to Council that the recommendation had been forwarded to President Angel on the reestablishment of Annual/Sick Leave Reports.  As to date she has not heard anything back from him on this regard. 

President Barrett reminded Council of retirement party for Mr. Harless on Friday afternoon. 

With no further business meeting adjourned 2:45 pm.