Executive Council met at 11 a.m. in 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Vance Watson, presiding, Dr. Peter Rabideau, John Rush, David Nagel, Dr. Bill Kibler, Braxton Coombs, Joy Odom, Dr. Melissa Mixon, Duncan McKenzie, Dr. Mary Alexander, Mike McGrevey, Sandi Williamson, Charles Guest, Joe Farris, and Don Zant.

Dr. Watson briefly discussed Executive Council procedures and suggested further consideration of the topic with a view to promoting good decision making. No action was taken.

Mr. McGrevey provided an overview of the budget outlook for FY09. State appropriations are essentially flat except for the employer share of group insurance premiums, which will result in a loss of purchasing power due to inflation and rising electricity costs, among other pressures. MSU will propose a tuition increase for consideration during the May meeting of the Board of Trustees. If approved, the increased revenue would help fund new faculty positions, address salary compression issues among classified staff, improve classroom technology, support the library, expand the graduate assistant health insurance subsidy, and add new police officers and counselors. This year's state bond bill provides funds for a renovation of Lee Hall, with major construction work two or three years away.

Dr. Kibler noted that a 7 percent increase in housing rates is proposed for Board of Trustees consideration, along with an increase in meal plan prices. Perry Cafeteria is being renovated during the summer.

Mr. Rush reported that more than 2,000 people participated in this springs Road Dawgs tour. The State of the Future Campaign has topped $420 million.

Ms. Odom noted that Staff Appreciation Day is at hand.

Mr. Coombs reported on plans to seek restoration of the downtown shuttle Night Route.

Mr. Coombs suggested that an effort by course instructors to place textbook orders in keeping with the published schedule would allow for a better supply of used books and hold down student costs. A goal is to achieve a 70 percent rate of on-time orders.

Dr. Mixon noted that faculty are preparing to move out of the Lloyd-Ricks Building by the end of June to allow for renovation.