University of Missouri will not outsource landscaping jobs

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The University of Missouri said Friday that it will not outsource its landscaping jobs in a proposal that contributed to backlash from the affected workers and other MU employees.

However, MU is still waiting for bids for its proposal to outsource custodial jobs.

MU said in a news release Friday that the proposals submitted by outside vendors would not provide the cost savings the university seeks as COVID-19 continues to drag down revenue. MU spends about $1.2 million on landscaping every year, employing about 30 workers.

Eight companies submitted qualified bids, MU said.

“During this unprecedented budget crisis, expenses at every level will be reassessed,” UM System President and interim MU Chancellor Mun Choi said in the release. “We are duty-bound as responsible stewards of taxpayer and tuition money to evaluate all expenses to ensure we can continue to advance the academic mission of this university.”

The proposal has led to protests by workers, including a loud demonstration last week in Jesse Hall that drew a rebuke from MU administrators. On Thursday the MU Faculty Council passed a resolution opposing the outsourcing of campus jobs.

Protests continued Friday in front of Jesse Hall.

MU is still exploring outsourcing its custodial work.