Trustee Update, April 2026
After taking a brief hiatus in April, I’m pleased to provide an overview of the two meetings held that month. As always, if you’re interested recordings of the meetings and agendas can be accessed on the Board Website. Once you’re on the website go to the upper right hand corner click on Library —>Governing Board Meeting Recordings.
Our next meeting will be on May 12, 2026, Closed Session starts at 4:15pm. Open Session begins at 5:15pm.
April 14, 2026 Regular Board Meeting
Board Governance and Personnel Decisions:
Ratification of employee terminations and resignations
Interim appointment of Executive Administrator and Assistant Superintendent and Vice President of Instruction
Disbanding of Advisory Board Committee due to litigation risk
Approval of Trustee Kaiser’s compensation and meeting attendance excuse
Rescheduling of Special Board Retreat:
Rescheduled from June 20, 2026, to June 18, 2026, at 4:00 pm.
Voting on CCCT Board Nominees and Travel Approvals:
Approval of all nine nominees for the Community College League of California board
Authorization of travel for four board members to the 2026 Annual Trustees Conference in Newport Beach, California
Enrollment, Academic Programs, and Student Support Services:
Mid-Semester Enrollment Report: FTE remained flat.
A new Bachelor of Science degree program in Building Performance and Environmental Design is launching.
The Student Health Fee will increase to a maximum of $20 effective Summer 2026 to support health and behavioral counseling services. This aligns with Chancellor’s Office mandates.
Superintendent President Search and Compensation Planning
The board learned about the comprehensive search process for the next Superintendent President, emphasizing transparency and strategic communication.
The launch of the Superintendent President Search Website serves as a marketing and information hub detailing the position, district, application process, timeline, mission, community, and board goals.
The site is user-friendly and informative to attract qualified candidates.
The search timeline and advisory committee composition were reviewed, with updates at the May board meeting regarding committee membership.
The recruitment window is July 20 to September 11, 2026.
Committee member names will not be disclosed to protect privacy and process integrity.
April 29, 2026 Special Board Meeting
During Public Comment, the Board heard speakers on part-time faculty equity and the Palomar Faculty Federation “One Faculty” Campaign.
Institutional Effectiveness and Data-Driven Planning
The board reviewed a data-driven institutional effectiveness cycle to guide strategic planning.
Strategic Enrollment and Outreach Initiatives
The college is intensifying efforts to enhance enrollment through dual enrollment, outreach programs, adult learners, and improved student support services.
Board Governance and Self-Evaluation
The board is preparing for its annual self-evaluation, ensuring effectiveness and alignment with accreditation standards. The board self-evaluation process and instruments have been largely retained.
Budget and Financial Outlook
Slower enrollment growth and state funding constraints have prompted cautious budget planning and targeted enrollment investments.