FAMU administrators plan to cut millions from their budget

Florida A&M administrators are planning for deeper budget cuts going into $10 million to $15 million, according to Chief Financial Officer Teresa Hardee.

Hardee said university administrators met Monday and will continue to meet up to the Feb. 12 board of trustees meeting. Their hope is to have a firm plan in hand to present to university trustees. So far, administrators expect to cut remaining vacant positions.

“Anything coming up we’re not filling it,” Hardee said.

They’re suggesting a five-day furlough for some employees.

“I would think we would put some criteria on that,” Hardee said explaining that not all employees will be required to take the unpaid leave.

And, the third option for the business side of the house is layoffs. Hardee said no number has been discussed yet.

For the academic side of the house, Provost Cynthia Hughes Harris said student numbers will likely have to be increased in classes. Professors will have to juggle more classes.

“We’re going to have to juggle and find that balance between not spending as much money and … maintaining our goals,” Harris said.