The University of Regina Board of Governors approved an operating budget that holds tuition fees at current levels and maintains the momentum of recent years.

The budget, approved at the U of R Board of Governors meeting yesterday, is designed to align to the University's planning framework. "The budget plan for the University for 2005-2006 builds on the progress of recent years," University president David Barnard said. "With an increase in provincial government funding, tuition fees can remain at current levels and we can continue to enhance student services."

The budget plan anticipates the construction of an addition to the Laboratory building, with final decisions pending later this month.

Board of Governors Chair Garth Fredrickson said the budget is balanced for the 11th consecutive year.

Key points in the budget include:
· $4.4 million increase in operating expenditures to $118 million
· No increase in tuition and course fees
· Increase of $240,000 in graduate student scholarships to $1.2 million
· Funds to address the growing infrastructure needs of the institution.

Overall provincial government funding in the University operating budget increases by 6.7 per cent. This includes the Saskatchewan Centennial Tuition Grant that will allow tuitions to remain at 2004-05 levels.

The budget provides $941,000 for strategic investments in library acquisitions, student services, and supports for faculties. In large part, those strategic investments will be paid for by the reallocation of existing funds.

The spending increases in the budget will cover institutional commitments (non-discretionary cost increases), including negotiated salary agreements, and rising insurance costs.

There is no increase in the budget for utilities as new construction and implementation of best practices has resulted in utility expenses remaining at the same level.