Richmond Community College College officials are pushing full steam ahead on the Scotland County project to build an industrial training center in Laurinburg.

The colleges' board of trustees expressed confidence this week that the $900,000 in NC House Appropriations funds set aside last session will be available to match Economic Development Association and Golden Leaf funds secured for construction of the facility.

RCC President Dr. Sharon Morrissey said the college has provided Laurinburg everything needed for the EDA to review and approve. All parties are aware of the urgency of getting the project started.

In other business, Morrissey told the board that Richmond Community College has reached its highest spring enrollment in history, but it also faces its toughest budget.

Morrissey said 1,808 students enrolled this semester, a number up 8 percent over last year. Both she and trustees acknowledged the boost comes from plant closings and the dislocated workers who need community colleges for retraining opportunities.

Morrissey said the impact of the governor's executive orders regarding budget cuts, spending restrictions, and cash allotments. She emphasized classroom instruction is the most important area of the college, especially during a time when the community most needs RCC. Purchases are limited to classroom supplies, equipment and materials necessary for instruction. Travel is limited to essential

business needs and a hiring freeze is in place for all positions except faculty.

"We have reverted four percent and are not in a position to revert more, they are simply not sending the cash. We're operating on a cash management basis. We will come through this and will be ready when the economic stimulus package becomes available. We will pursue grant funding as well. We are identifying opportunities for new programs and new technologies and will not stick our heads in the sand," she said.

The board also approved revisions to the Family Medical Leave Act to include changes regarding military personnel and their families; a policy regarding usage of a new Student Government Association web page; and changes to the college's purchasing procedures.