WESSON – Copiah-Lincoln Community College trustees Thursdayapproved a $16.5 million budget for the school’s new fiscal yearthat begins July 1.

The budget anticipates over $408,000 in new revenue, mostly fromthe state and student fees due to higher enrollment. Budget writersconservatively projected a 3 percent increase in student enrollmentnext year, said Dr. Steve Wells, chairman of the budget and financecommittee.

In expenditures, the spending plan sets aside $218,022 forsalary increases for faculty and staff. That amounts to an averageof 2.3 percent.

“That was one of our priorities,” Wells said. “That’s somethingwe would have liked to have been greater, but under thecircumstances, we should be pleased the administration was able toprepare a budget to allow that to happen.”

Co-Lin President Dr. Howell Garner said school officials werepleased to be able to provide raises this year. He said theyrepresent two steps on the salary scale.

Garner added that Co-Lin ranks sixth among the state’s 15community colleges in starting salaries for beginning instructorswith no experience.

“We feel very good about that,” Garner said.

Garner complimented budget managers and staff for their soundbudget actions and allowing savings where possible.

In other action Thursday, trustees approved resolutionsregarding an up to $4 million bond issue to build a Co-Lineducational branch in Simpson County. Supervisors in that countyhave agreed to increase a property tax levy for Co-Lin from thecurrent .44 mills to the maximum three mills.

“They’re excited and very enthusiastic about getting Co-Lin inSimpson County,” Garner said.

Unknown factors about the project include whether the branchwill be located in the old Wal-Mart building on Highway 49 or if anew facility will be built. Also, a date for when the additionalrevenue will start coming in must be determined.

After those issues are addressed, trustees will be asked toformally proceed with bond issue plans.