Taxpayer money will not be used to help Birmingham-Southern College, says Governor
Governor Kay Ivey's office tells ABC 33/40 the state will not use taxpayer money to help Birmingham-Southern college.
The school was in need of $30 million dollars from the state to keep their campus doors open.
Last week, the Birmingham City Council was to vote on a resolution of intent to help support Birmingham-Southern College as part of a multi-government investment to keep the college from closing. That vote was pushed to April 19, 2023.
This morning, the Governor's communication director provided us with the following statement when asked if the state will be doing anything to assist the college.
"The state has no plans to use the taxpayers’ public funds to bail out a private college."
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The time now comes for Birmingham Southern College to begin looking at alternative options.
School leaders sent out a statement saying they are now looking at the $2.7 billion dollars in surplus education funds as the solution for the school.
"The proposal to spend the $2.7 billion surplus in education funds that was introduced last week has presented lawmakers with the opportunity to prioritize the use of this one-time money for the benefit of education in our state. We have had positive conversations with legislative leaders and look forward to engaging in this process as it moves forward."
With the semester more than half way over students say they are now preparing for the worst.
“I think it’s gonna disrupt a lot of peoples lives for sure,” said Senior Luke Defur, "It’s a lot to process cause everybody, all of my friends that were seniors, now come back and see me whenever they can so I think not having that opportunity is going to be just sad.”
BSC board of trustees chair Keith D. Thompson sent a statement to the campus and community saying...
"Dear BSC Family,
The BSC Board of Trustees faces making history-changing decisions that will impact the lives of so many people. One of our biggest challenges is the need to make a decision soon versus the timing of the Montgomery budget process. Knowing whether BSC will receive one-time bridge funding from the state is vital information we need to make the best decision.
Over the past several days we have been encouraged by developments demonstrating that the hard work of President Daniel Coleman and our legislative advocates is having a positive impact on decision-makers in Montgomery. The advocacy efforts from our students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and the business community are also having a positive impact. There is still work to do to secure the necessary financial commitments, but please know that your messages have been received and your voice is being heard.
After weighing the pros and cons of a delay, we have decided to move the Board of Trustees meeting to April 5.
Students, as you return from spring break, please know that we understand that this is stressful for you. Try to focus on your classes and enjoy time with your friends, and trust that we all want what you want: for BSC to continue past the end of this term.
Alumni and parents, keep up the messaging to elected officials. Thank them for their consideration, ask for their support, and demonstrate through your communication that this College is a worthy investment.
Faculty and staff, thank you for your devotion to our students as they look to you for guidance and assurance.
During the most challenging time I can imagine as a BSC Trustee, I have often found myself quoting the Apostle Paul, who wrote to the church in Philippi and said, “I thank my God for all my remembrances of you.”
Your commitment and devotion to the College is inspiring, as is the strength you continue to demonstrate during this uncertain time.
Forward, Ever!
The Rev. Keith D. Thompson '83
Chair, BSC Board of Trustees"
The boards next meeting has been pushed up to April 5th.