Board OKs increase of $250,000 for JCC

There were a few hesitations, but Jefferson County legislators ultimately agreed Tuesday to give their community college an additional $250,000 for the 2008-09 academic year.

Robert A. Boice, R-Rutland, cast the sole dissenting vote among 15 legislators, telling colleagues he could not support the 6.64 percent increase that brings the county's contribution to $4,015,095.

"I'm not supporting this resolution because I don't believe in the college. I do. But the college is one investment in the community and there are many more," he said. "That (increase) is huge when you start looking at what our departments and authorized agencies will be facing this fall."

Mr. Boice was the only legislator of five who advocated for a $200,000 increase last week who stood firm Tuesday. The college had requested a $500,000 increase.

Legislators Michael J. Docteur, R-Cape Vincent, and Barry M. Ormsby, R-Belleville, voiced concerns but ultimately supported the resolution. Legislators James A. Nabywaniec, R-Calcium, and Gino M. Zando, R-Deferiet, offered no further comments Tuesday.

Mr. Docteur said he believed the $500,000 increase given to the college last year and this year's hike would be compounded on the taxpayer.

"We want to give advantages to our young people," he said. "One of the biggest advantages we can give our young population is a lower tax rate to come home to."

Mr. Ormsby predicted fuel hikes would stress all facets of the county budget.

"It's not going to be too long down the road that we're going to be in austerity mode," he said.

Legislator Philip N. Reed, R-Fishers Landing, did not advocate for a specific number. But he said large increases "cannot go on forever."

He implored the county to help the college increase enrollment so the contribution "is less of a burden on taxpayers" in future years.

Legislator Kent D. Burto, R-West Carthage, concurred, but added, "I really believe in the long term we're going to look back and realize this was a good investment."

And Legislator Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said she would have advocated for a larger increase if the college could show that the money would save three new positions — in public safety, alternative energy and community outreach — that are now threatened.

"One of the reasons I'm here today is to make the community a better place," she said. "I think investing in our community college is a major part of leaving our community in good shape."

With the county's approval secured, the college's Board of Trustees will vote on adopting the $20.8 million spending plan at a meeting today.