Executive Council met at 11 a.m. in 611 Allen. Present were Dr. Malcolm Portera, presiding, Dr. David Cole, Dr. Euel Coats, Brad Sweet, Dr. Robert Altenkirch, Dr. Roy Ruby, Gaddis Hunt, Joe Farris, Bill Broyles, Dr. Melvin Ray, Charles Guest, and Dr. Roy Ikenberry.

Dr. Ruby recommended that the practice of doubling the amount of fines imposed for illegal parking after a specified period of non-payment be rescinded and that the amount of parking fines be set at $22. Recommendations to halt the doubling practice have been made by the Student Association, Police Department, and Traffic Committee. The proposed increase in the fine amount would offset the loss of revenue from no longer doubling fines. Action on the proposal was deferred pending a comprehensive review of policies related to traffic fines, parking decal sales, and revenue available for street and parking lot improvements.

Dr. Ruby distributed the results of a survey of African-American students conducted by the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center. Reasons for attending Mississippi State given by African-American students closely match the responses given by students in general in the annual survey of entering students.

Dr. Altenkirch reported that research and service awards for July through December 1998 totaled $35 million.

Mr. Hunt presented the current construction progress report. Construction bids are being sought for the renovation of Hilbun Hall, and work is expected to begin about March 1.

The meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m.