NIC: Steady as she goes

I agree with the wisdom of Trustee Greg McKenzie that this is not the time, so early in a new year, for one member to demand the resignation of another.

I consider all five members personal friends and individuals of high integrity, all wishing what is best for our college. Each individual brings his or her unique life experiences to the position. Diversity of opinion is healthy.

Obviously from the article there have been some issues between two of the members in the past. We the citizens of Kootenai County would ask that we go forward with maturity and grace, focusing on the critical challenges that NIC will be facing this year.

We are blessed with an excellent college president, Dr. Rick MacLennan. We also don’t think it is unreasonable for the chair to request expenses to be presented to the board for review and reimbursement.

Having been a member of the NIC Booster Club for many years, I would like to see our once nationally-ranked sports programs resumed.

NIC, not too long ago, had a population of more than 9,000 FTE students. In 2021, that number has dropped to a little over 3,000 FTE.

This decline will have major effects on programs and budgets. We need our trustees’ full attention addressing these issues. This is why we request all our members to lay aside the past and work in unity for the enrichment of our students and the betterment of the communities in the five northern counties NIC serves.

ALAN GOLUB

Hayden