The UW System Board of Regents began preparing for the 2013-15 state budget with a discussion at a meeting Thursday.
System President Kevin Reilly said it is important the board begin dialogues about the budget early in order to best advocate for the system’s needs.
“We want to take a deliberative, strategic approach; one that gives board members time to understand the complex issues, ask questions now and to formulate questions for later,” Reilly said.
System Vice President for Administration and Fiscal Affairs Michael Morgan said the role of the UW System is to create more graduates, more jobs and stronger communities in Wisconsin, and the state should thus view the system as an investment rather than a cost.
The Regent’s Capital Planning and Budget Committee also approved the creation of a new year-round practice facility for the UW-Madison women’s softball team adjacent to the team’s current field near the UW Hospital. The facility will cost $2.3 million, funded through gifts.
The committee also approved the final phase of the Student Athlete Performance Center, which will renovate the McClain Center and Camp Randall Stadium. The third phase will cost about $33.3 million, also funded through gifts.
The entire board will take a final vote on the projects Friday.
