HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 67

(By Delegate Thompson)

[February 15, 2022]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the feasibility of the creation of a community college in Randolph County.

Whereas, Community colleges are essential to our state as they provide opportunities for learning and education and for non-traditional students; and

Whereas, Community colleges also serve to provide specialized education for local residents that address local job opportunities to provide a workforce emerging for local businesses and industry; and

Whereas, Community colleges need to be accessible to all regions of the state and the nearest community college is 90 miles east of Randolph County; and

Whereas, In rural areas, such as Randolph County, access to education often is limited by access to public transportation; and

Whereas, Establishing a community college in the greater Elkins area would give the region an institution to help educate the future local leaders in the community; and

Whereas, A community college in the Greater Elkins area can focus on training for local economic opportunities such as the hardwood industry, healthcare, and tourism; and

Whereas, A community college in the Greater Elkins area would foster a relationship and compliment local private institutions of higher education in Randolph County and provide educational opportunities not otherwise available; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the feasibility of the creation of a community college in Randolph County; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2023, on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report, and to draft any necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.