Crumbling masonry at Engineering and Computing Center.
Gov. Tim Walz today proposed a two-year, $49.5 billion budget that includes $51.6 million in new funding and $150 million for asset preservation for Minnesota State system colleges and universities.
“This budget proposal will help to meet the needs of our students, and we thank Gov. Walz and all of our legislators for helping strengthen education at St. Cloud State and supporting our mission to give all students access to high-quality, affordable education and ensure their success,” said President Robbyn Wacker.
St. Cloud State is seeking $10.6 million in asset-preservation funding. That money would help extend the life of aging facilities that serve students, employees and the community.
Projects in the $10.6 million ask include:
- $2,797,000 for Wick Science Building roof repair
- $2,777,000 to repair heating, ventilation and air-processing systems in Administrative Services Building
- $1,976,000 for Heating Plant roof and masonry repairs
- $1,350,000 for Stewart Hall roof replacement
- $822,000 for Engineering and Computing Center masonry and tuckpoint repair
- $669,000 to design a replacement ice plant at Herb Brooks National Hockey Center
- $249,000 for structural repairs at Husky Stadium
“We appreciate Gov. Walz’s focus on our facilities’ infrastructure and asset preservation, and we share his perspective that all Minnesotans should have access to a quality, affordable higher education,” said Devinder Malhotra, chancellor of Minnesota State.
The seven asset-preservation items are supported by the University’s Comprehensive Facilities Plan, according to Phillip Moessner, assistant vice president for facilities management.
Minnesota State is seeking $37 million to replace its 20-year-old Integrated Statewide Record System (ISRS), the software that manages financial, student and academic activities. ISRS is used daily by 400,000 people, including employees, students and prospective students.
Walz’ proposed budget is for fiscal years 2020 and 2021, the period from July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2021.
The Legislature is tasked with producing a biennial budget for the Governor to sign. The 2019 Legislature is scheduled to end May 20.
St. Cloud State is part of the the Minnesota State system, which is comprised of seven universities and 30 community and technical colleges.
