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Pact to gauge U-System costs, successes

September 1, 2002 /

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Good communication builds understanding. That’s what is needed between the Montana University System and the public, especially legislators.

Gazette Editorial

For years, there has been a rift between key Montana legislators and the University System. The credibility gap has widened as state funding has dwindled as a percentage of the University System budget.

After the 2001 Legislature adjourned, the interim education committee appointed a joint subcommittee on post-secondary education. Chaired by state Sen. Royal Johnson, R-Billings, the subcommittee of legislators and regents hammered out an agreement that may help open a new, clearer line of communication between educators and policy makers.

The agreement, signed by Johnson and Commissioner of Higher Education Dick Crofts, spells out more than a dozen accountability measures for the University System. The pact requires the University System to report on these measures to the Legislature in January.

Johnson says these agreed-upon measures will help ensure that lawmakers get information they need.

Thanks to the members of the Joint Subcommit-tee on Post-Secondary Edu-cation Policy and Budget for starting a constructive dialogue. Beside Johnson, the members are Sen. Edward Butcher, R-Winifred; Sen. Don Ryan, D-Great Falls; Sen. Emily Stonington, D-Bozeman; governor’s representative Steve Snezak, Rep. Gary Branae, D-Billings; Regent Ed Jasmin and Regent Mark Semmens. Former Rep. Art Peterson, R-Billings, served as vice chairman.

The No. 1 goal of the University System is meeting the needs of students who are essential to the Montana work force. The pact recognizes this priority.

This agreement is a critical step toward fulfilling the subcommittee’s charge of "improving the relationship of the Legislature and the Montana University System." We look forward to the accountability report, due four months from now in "easy-to-read format."

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