The University of Lethbridge continues to try and make up an $11.8-million budget shortfall for next year.
Budget plans now include reductions through voluntary staff retirement, which may total up to 34 faculty positions.
According to administrators, over 80% of the school’s operating expenses go toward employees.
“When we have to make a massive cut to our budget, it has to hit that line the largest,” said Nancy Walker, Vice-President of Finance.
A community update on Tuesday provided a more clear vision of how to cover the shortfall. U of L officials expect to take other measures including extending the life cycle of equipment.
Also expected is an increase in student administrative fees worth upwards of $30, which isn’t sitting well with the University of Lethbridge Students’ Union.
“Fees should be for very specific things, this does not do that,” said Armin Escher, ULSU president. “We’ve been given a list of things this covers, but the list changes from year to year.”
“It’s a moving target and it’s extremely frustrating.”
Premier Alison Redford announced last week that post-secondary tuition is frozen for the next school year, but students argue the money is being recovered through fees.
“We’re trying to make the right decisions,” said Mike Mahon, U of L president. “While there is going to be a direct and dramatic impact, we want to make sure we’re still able to offer a quality experience at the University of Lethbridge.”
Roughly $2-million still needs to be reduced from the budget, but administrators believe they’ve come a long way since a Letter of Expectation was delivered from the province in late March.
A rocky budget forecast, however, is wearing thin for some.
“From a people perspective, it’s damaging to the institution and demoralizing for people,” said Walker.
A final budget is expected to be presented to the U of L board of directors on May 15.
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