Southern Illnois University Edwardsville could have payroll difficulties

By Sharon Stevens, Education Reporter

KSDK -- Just one week after announcing cost-cutting measures, a local university says it may not be able to make payroll next month. Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville says the problem is that the state of Illinois is behind in payments owed to the school.

Bill Brinson is the manager of photo services for SIU-Edwardsville. In his 24 years at SIU, Brinson has always received a paycheck. But on Wednesday, SIU announced that next month's paycheck is in jeopardy unless the state steps in and pays some of what it owes the school, a total of $115 million.

Brinson says he's trying to stay positive.

"We may have to make tough decisions, things may have to be curtailed but I really believe that something is going to be worked out," Brinson says.

Faculty member Anne Powell is also thinking positively.

"I hope for the best at this point. I try not to worry too much about it. We're not the only people who are in this boat," Powell says.

Last week, campus officials announced a hiring freeze and other cost cutting measures, but it may not be enough. SIU officials have filed an emergency financial request with Governor Pat Quinn. They're optimistic but they add this is a tough time of year to go without being paid.

"People are pulling together and there hasn't been a lot of panic," said Vaughn Vandegrift, SIUE Chancellor. "I think in the end I think hoping things will work out and in the holiday spirit of goodwill, I hope that'll be the case."

No word on how soon they'll get an answer on the emergency request.

SIUE has not received a payment from the state of Illinois in five months.