Members Present:
Tony Bredahl, Sarah Egerstrom, Mark Kinders, Gretchen Link, Steve Luebke, Emily Ronning, Mike Stifter, Larry Testa and Sue Walton

Call to Order
Meeting called to order at 3:05 PM

Chair’s Report:
No Report

Representative’s Report:
After meeting in Madison three weeks ago, Tony had the following to report:

• The wording in the some classified contracts has been finalized. These representatives will vote on a contract next week.
• HR Issues – There is talk at system about pulling state HR resources into the system and having tuition money paid directly to the system. This would allow more control and discretion over where the money goes.
• The UW System has one of the best health insurance programs in the country – could possibly expect an increase in premiums
• A tuition increase would be the last attempt to improve the current budget situation. However, the increase would not be enough to cover the budget deficit - cuts would still be inevitable to other areas.
• There is some talk about privatizing the retirement fund (having it as an option).
• The Regents have been asking for information about lay-offs.
• Linda Wymer said that there is definitely a pro-UW System sentiment among the public
  A Brochure (Citizens for Higher Education) has been created to help gain public support for the UW System. Also looking for additional volunteers to help support the organization.
• Academic affairs representative concerned about programs being cut that aren’t profitable. Encouraging us to keep liberal education in mind.

New Business

• Larry suggested that we meet right after Tony attends his meetings, not three weeks later. The information is not as relevant/timely. We’ll discuss alternate meeting times at the next meeting.

  
  Tony’s upcoming meeting dates:
  December 19 Teleconference
  February 20 Meeting in Madison
  March 20 Meeting in Madison
  April 24 Teleconference
  May 15 Meeting in Madison
  The committee decided to hold its regularly scheduled meeting in January – AND, Larry has volunteered to bring cake!!

Old Business
None

Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 3:52 PM