Summer 2017: Conference committee sets UA budget at $317 million

Dear UA Community -

Following up on the cautious optimism I expressed yesterday, this afternoon the legislative operating budget conference committee adopted a budget for the University of Alaska, funding us at $317 million unrestricted general funds (UGF). While this isn't the number we hoped for, given the state's fiscal challenges and the real possibility of a much deeper cut I am relieved the Legislature has taken another step forward.

The Board of Regents will meet to discuss the budget June 22. I also will share with them the contingency plan for reduced operations, but this news means we most likely will have an operating budget in the new fiscal year. Please listen in to the meeting from 9-11 a.m. online at alaska.edu/bor/live. Livestream will be available with the exception of any executive session.

As a reminder, town hall forums will take place as scheduled this Thursday and Friday, and UA leaders will be available to explain the outcome of tomorrow's Board of Regents meeting, provide a recap of the FY18 budget, and address any questions you may have. Details of the town hall forums follow:

• Statewide on Thursday from 3:30 to 4:00 pm in Butrovich 109/Bragaw 205;
• UAS on Friday from 9:00 to 10:00 am in Egan 223 (note a change from yesterday's message);
• UAA on Friday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm in the Wendy Williamson Auditorium;
• UAF on Friday from 3:30 to 4:30 pm in the Wood Center Ballroom

Thank you once again for your patience and for all you do for our great university.

Jim Johnsen

June Archive