Governor Brewer Announces Release of Stimulus Funds to Community Colleges

Press Release

Initial $9 Million to Yavapai, Pima, Graham, Mohave and Cochise

Governor Jan Brewer today announced the first release of stimulus funds to
community colleges for FY2009 funding from the first phase of the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund (SFSF) through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). Funds are being released to community colleges in the following amounts: Yavapai $1,029,816; Pima $4,523,652;
Graham $873,202; Mohave $874,960; and Cochise $1,628,634.

"I am pleased to see the State Fiscal Stabilization Funds flowing to the community colleges," said Governor Brewer. "Throughout the legislative session, I fought to protect education - including the community college system - from devastating cuts. These funds will allow the state's community
colleges to limit tuition increases, prevent personnel reductions and create jobs."

"Arizona's community colleges are pleased that economic stimulus funds are being released to them for use throughout the state," said Rufus Glasper, Chancellor of the Maricopa Community Colleges and President of the Arizona Community College Presidents' Council. "Community colleges are a major part of the economic engine that will drive Arizona's recovery, and this money is essential to that process."

"Pima Community College deeply appreciates Governor Brewer's support for Arizona's community colleges in these most trying and difficult times, as evidenced today by the allocation of $9 million to the state's community colleges," said Roy Flores, Chancellor of Pima Community College. "I
am happy to inform the College community of the release of $4,523,652 to Pima Community College."

The following community colleges will also receive Phase I SFSF funding as soon as receipt of the funds is approved by their governing boards: Gila $175,353; Coconino $649,258; Maricopa $15,093,592; Navajo $1,304,024; Pinal $1,206,787 and Yuma/La Paz $1,311,722.

Parts of the funds were allocated to each district to restore cuts to their capital funds. The balance of the dollars was prorated based upon their level of state operating aid. Community colleges can use the funds for any operating expenditure authorized by ARRA. Most of the funds will be used
for teacher salaries and benefits.

The community colleges are scheduled to receive additional SFSF funds for FY2010 funding.

Phase II funds are scheduled to be available in late November.

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