UM Budget vs. Missoula Economy – Proposed budget cuts could hurt city economy

The University of Montana helps drive Missoula’s economy, so as budget cuts and recent enrollment drops afflict campus, local industry will be affected as well.

"Clearly if there’s reduction of students or a reduction in payroll or economic activity at UM, that’s bound to have an effect on the larger community," Missoula mayor John Engen said.

Western Montana’s largest single employer, UM, is planning for potential budget cuts in the next fiscal year. Reductions to the General Fund, which is comprised of state allocations and tuition revenue, may force school administration to eliminate certain jobs, classes or services — austerity measures sure to trickle across town.

by Brett Bernsten

Full Story: http://www.montanakaimin.com/news/article_a0f5f8f2-a1a7-11e2-849b-0019bb30f31a.html