North Country Leader

The New York State Assembly Higher Education Committee recently convened to address the capital funding needs of higher education institutions in the state, including SUNY, CUNY, and independent private colleges. The hearing highlighted significant backlogs in capital improvements and maintenance, with SUNY facing an $8.9 billion backlog and CUNY at $6.9 billion.

Last year, the state allocated $300 million to maintain operations at Downstate Medical Center facilities, while Upstate Medical University also struggles to secure necessary funding for capital projects. Advocates stressed the importance of equitable investment across all institutions. "Upstate Medical deserves equitable investment, just like Downstate," it was noted during the hearing.

New York provides support to independent private colleges through an annual allocation of $40 million in HECap funding, which requires campuses to match every dollar invested by the state with three dollars of their own. Suggestions were made to broaden this program and introduce a Green HECap initiative.

While groups such as the New York League of Conservation Voters and the New York Building Decarbonization Coalition expressed interest in decarbonizing campuses statewide, concerns were raised about who would bear these costs. It was emphasized that "New York must carefully prioritize its financial resources to ensure sustainability."

Three primary methods for covering capital costs were discussed: savings from offset operating costs, taxpayer funding, or increasing student tuition. However, many green investments only yield returns after ten years, potentially placing a financial burden on students and taxpayers.

The committee also addressed challenges related to enrollment declines and underutilized spaces on campuses. These issues can drain financial resources since demolition costs are drawn from capital funds.

In advocating for improvements within higher education systems, there is a need for solutions that balance innovation with fiscal responsibility. The goal is to provide every student in New York with access to vibrant and well-maintained educational environments while being mindful of available resources.

"New York needs to build a brighter future for our students and institutions while being mindful of the resources we have at hand," one participant concluded.