UM System warns of “bold actions” amid budget constraints

The University of Missouri System warned of “bold actions” amid budget constraints on its website Monday.

Mizzou students, faculty and staff were also emailed about how the system is addressing financial challenges.

A section labeled “2017 Budget Planning” is now available on the UM System’s website. It provides links to the budget process, guiding principles and timeline.

According to the UM System, it is facing a period of “significant budget constraints” that will require officials to “take bold actions to become a stronger academic institution in both the short- and long-term.”

The University of Missouri System’s share of the state’s current fiscal year 2017 budget withholds is $37 million, with the potential for $57 million in cuts in the Governor’s proposed fiscal year 2018 budget.

Officials also said the constraints come as the University of Missouri continues to address declines in enrollment.

A letter sent to MU Faculty and staff said addressing the financial challengers “will require an overall budget cut between 8% and 12% throughout the University of Missouri System.” It went on to say the system cannot rely on reserve funds to solve problems created by permanent budget reductions and that this will not be addressed with “across-the-board cuts.”

The letter also asked for feedback and input on how campuses can save on expenses and grow revenues.

The UM System says it plans to share final plans with all members of the University community in June of this year.