CENTRALIA — Illinois’ nine month budget impasse has led to more cuts and workforce reductions at Kaskaskia College, with the Board of Trustees Wednesday deciding in special session to eliminate another program and two more positions.

Due to continued financial challenges resulting from the state budget standoff, the Board agreed the Automotive Collision Technology Program at KC will be eliminated along with positions for a full-time KCTOP employee and a full-time faculty member.

To improve the fiscal bottom-line of the Truck Driver Training program, a $500 fee was approved by the Board. Despite this addition, KC’s four-week program remains comparable to other community colleges and is less expensive than private training companies. 

KC’s TDT program is available in a 4 week or 8 week offering, with the 8 week format including the Hazardous Material Endorsement, and it is eligible for federal financial aid.

The Board of Trustees also approved a resolution to extend the current collective bargaining agreements for twelve months from their current expiration dates. KCFT has approved this extension, and the extension is under consideration by KCTOP and the Carpenter’s Union.

The Board also approved a resolution for the College to participate in an electricity and natural gas buying group. The Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Affordable Gas and Electric Company, LLC to offer chamber members an opportunity to save on purchases of electricity and natural gas. 

The College Administration has researched the provision and has found the results to be favorable. As a member of the chamber, KC plans to pursue entering the group to receive reduced pricing, estimated at an annual savings of $23,000.  Participation is planned to begin in October, 2016.