Shaffer clarifies announcement of SMC funding

Published 1:45 pm Wednesday, February 20, 2008

By Staff
The approval of two use and finance statements by the Joint Capital Outlay Committee in Lansing takes two projects for Southwestern Michigan College one step closer to their goal, says state Rep. Rick Shaffer.
"Over the past few years I have been happy to work closely with Southwestern Michigan College as they grow their campus to enhance the learning experience of students from southwest Michigan and across the state," commented Shaffer, R-Three Rivers.
"I am glad that, with the support of our Sen. Ron Jelinek, we were able to gain the legislative approval needed to move these projects forward."
SMC's Board of Trustees has bonding authority, allowing it to raise the necessary funds for its projects, but under the law, description and estimates, along with other vital information must be provided to the Department of Management and Budget.
Then, legislative approval must be sought to either approve or deny the projects.
In this instance, approval of SMC's use and finance statements was unanimous by the Joint Capital Outlay Committee, which includes legislators from both the House and the Senate.
"This is great news for Southwestern Michigan College," said Dr. David Mathews, president of the college.
"I want to extend my thanks to Rep. Shaffer and his colleagues for their support of our goals."