People wishing to give testimony concerning the programs identified on the elimination list will have their chance at the public hearings today, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Wednesday Jan. 19, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the boardroom at MHCC.

Participants will have one-half hour prior to the meeting to sign up to be added to the list of presenters and speakers.

Oral presentations will be limited to three minutes per person and participants are encouraged to comment both orally and in writing.

The elimination list – whether final or draft – is only a recommendation. Before any programs can be cut, the MHCCD Board must approve the list at their meeting Feb. 9.
Tapes and transcripts of the hearings will be provided to the board for consideration along with the administration’s proposed elimination list, but, according to a memo sent by Secretary to the President June Jacobs, “Written statements will get your message across best.”

The elimination list, released Dec. 15, consists of five programs identified as dispensable by college administrators.

The programs listed are: Horticulture (certificate program), Accounting Technology (AAS), Electronics Technology (AAS), Entrepreneurship (AAS) and Aviation (AAS).

Silverman said at the board meeting Wednesday the Aviation and Horticulture programs are expected to bring the most support in opposition of the elimination list.