Claim Regarding Lavish Facilities
Charge: A claim has been made by a community member that "The bulk of the money has gone into building lavish new facilities. . ."
Facts:
The facilities built by the College District are definitely not “lavish.” The facilities are built--with input from faculty and staff who will occupy the buildings--to accommodate current and future programs; they are cost efficient and they are energy efficient, but they are NOT lavish. The College District staff always evaluates with experts whether it is more cost effective to renovate an existing building rather than build a new one. Sometimes, for reasons of seismic safety, ADA accessibility, removal of hazardous materials, or the need to dramatically upgrade infrastructure, it is necessary to tear down an existing building. We do so with consideration of the historic context and architectural integrity of our three Colleges.
A charge has also been made that the CSM president's office is a "penthouse." It is not. It is a fourth floor corner office that admittedly has some fabulous views; however many of the offices, public spaces and conference rooms in the building also enjoy the incredible views. We are very fortunate that our predecessors chose what then was vacant farm land and now is prime real estate for our Colleges. The College site, buildings and views have been and will be enjoyed by generations of students and members of the community who visit here.
