EITC one step closer to becoming community college

The idea of making Eastern Idaho Technical College into a community college is one step closer to becoming a reality.

The state House of Representatives passed legislation that creates a $5 million startup account to pay for the costs of turning the tech school into a community college.

But that will only happen if area voters agree to do so.

We asked several legislators their opinions on the bill.

Rep. Elaine Smith of Pocatello voted against the bill. It’s too early in the process to be setting $5 million aside. Idaho Falls or Bonneville County, if they want a community college, that process hasn’t taken place. It hasn’t gone to the voters. So we don’t know if the voters will support it. To put the money aside now when we could use it other places is just too much,” she said.

The state Senate hasn’t voted on the resolution yet, but Sen. Roy Lacey of Pocatello said he has no problem with it, adding, “We do plan to give it some funding. But it will be held here in a savings account until such time as Idaho Falls passes their levy or however they raise the money for their portion.”

We also asked a representative from Idaho State University about any concerns about another college in the eastern side of the state. The Spokesperson said, “Idaho State University will support the decision of the voters as they decide the future feasibility of a community college in Idaho Falls.”