Board of Trustees Meeting: September 17th, 2026

The Highline College Board of Trustees meeting, identified in the transcript as September 16, 2026 (the meeting title references September 17), included a study session and general meeting. The Board approved the FY 2026–27 budget, effective July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. The presentation projected a roughly $1.5 million deficit across all funds and an almost $3 million deficit in general operations; the college proposed using $1.5 million from unrestricted carry-forward balances to meet budget obligations. Projected expenditures were about $96.6 million, up $3.3 million, with more than 85% of the increase attributed to labor and benefits. Trustees also approved pursuing acquisition of the property at 23835 Pacific Highway South in Kent to address space and infrastructure needs; no purchase price was stated. The college cited aging facilities, including storm drains, and limited state support for major projects. The Board separately ratified the 2027–29 WPEA agreement.

Public Safety staff introduced proposed Washington Administrative Code changes concerning campus free-speech and petitioner areas, including adding a third designated location in Building 8 and revising signage and other provisions. No approval vote occurred on the proposed changes at this meeting; the Board was expected to consider advancing the rulemaking process at its next meeting, followed by public and campus input and further Board action. No vendor awards, competitive solicitations, or contract amounts were identified.