Haywood Community College requests modest operating increase, highlights workforce training expansion
Summary
Haywood Community College President Dr. Shelley White presented the FY 2026–27 budget request, seeking about $47,475 in increased salary and fringe funding (largely for a 2.5% proposed pay change), outlined capital needs and workforce‑training investments funded in part by near‑$11M received after the mill closure.
Haywood Community College President Dr. Shelley White asked Haywood County commissioners to support the college’s FY 2026–27 budget request and highlighted investments in workforce programs tied to recent regional economic shifts.
Dr. White said the college requested a $47,475 increase for salary and fringe benefits — driven mainly by a proposed 2.5% salary increase — and pointed to utility and contracted‑services pressures, including a $100,000 projected increase tied to an upcoming custodial bid. “We typically will address those at the same time when the state moves forward with an increase,” Dr. White said, explaining the alignment strategy for compensation.
She described capital needs for campus facilities, including restroom renovations in the Hemlock Building and a request to replace a small number of fleet vehicles. The college plans a ribbon cutting this spring for a new workforce outdoor training center that will house CDL and line‑worker programs and support BLET and public‑safety driving training.
Dr. White said the college received nearly $11 million after the mill closure and has used those funds to invest in skilled‑trades equipment and program expansion. Commissioners praised the college’s quick response to community needs and the success of students at statewide competitions.
No formal county appropriation decision was made at the meeting; commissioners asked follow‑up questions about program expansion, turnover, and opportunities to partner on new training tracks.
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