Policy Concerning Space Allocation and Assignment

May 2001

 

Introduction

 

There are two dimensions to issues surrounding physical space:  assignment of space in the broad categories, i.e., instruction, laboratory, etc., and the actual use of existing space that may or may not be consistent with the respective originally established categories.  As a rule, space is assigned in the official system records in terms of the original plans for a building.  Changes are possible in certain circumstances such as changes due to major remodel, change from classroom to laboratory, etc.  The determination of the need for State-funded construction is made in terms of the official data base--Space Facilities Data Base (SFDB).  This policy is intended to guide the campus process for the allocation and reallocation of space.

 

Principles

 

n     All facilities located on the site of the University are the property of the University and are subject to University assignment.  Exceptions are those facilities constructed with non-State/non-university funds and located on University land subjected to terms of a long-term lease, i.e., the California Academy for Mathematics and Science (CAMS), the proposed Sports Complex.

 

n     To the extent possible, uses of space should closely approximate the official CSU assignment classification as shown in the SFDB.

 

n     Every effort should be made to document the current use of space as compared to its classification and to reflect changes that have occurred in the SFDB and the operation data base.  The role and purposes of the University have evolved in significant ways since the initial construction of assignment of space as much as thirty or more years ago.  For example, increasing emphasis on faculty and student research opportunities funded by external funds often requires space for faculty and student research project activity funded externally.  Similarly, many additional student service functions over the years have led to greater non-instructional space demands.

 

n     To the maximum extent possible, space currently being used for non-instructional purposes and originally intended for instructional purposes should  be reviewed to determine if it may be returned to the original purposes.  Instructional space should be converted to non-instructional space only as a last resort.

 

n     Assignment and the reassignment of space are an all-University matter and are not the exclusive responsibility of any single University division or unit.

 

n     All units of the University are responsible for assuring that maximum utilization of space is achieved.  For example, specialized space when unused for its primary purposes should be made available for other related, compatible, interdisciplinary uses with due consideration to safety and security.

 

n     The following guidelines in the assignment or reassignment of space should apply:

 

a.       The relationship to long-term goals, objectives and priorities of the University, including support for the acquisition of additional facilities and the University's continued development.

b.       The maximum utilization of space for instructional  purposes contributing to program quality.

c.       Priority for space assignment is as follows:  (1.) instruction; (2.) student services; (3.) administration.  Community uses may be accommodated after on-campus needs are met.  (See Policy on Scheduling and Use of Campus Facilities and Space.)

d.       Efficiency and effectiveness of overall University operations.

e.       Recognition of external requirements including:

(1.)     Accreditation

(2.)     American Disabilities Act

(3.)     Health and safety

 

Formation of Standing Committee and Procedures

 

A University physical space allocation committee is established.  This Committee is charged with the following responsibilities:

 

a.       To review all plans and proposals for the permanent assignment and reassignment of physical space in all University facilities that fall within one or more of the following:

l.         Inter-divisional transfer of space.  (For these purposes the library is considered a division.)

2.       Changes in use.

3.       Actions that result in modification of the SFDB.

4.       Modification of space that involves minor capital outlay.

5.       Space vacated as the result of new facilities coming on-line.

b.       To review annually the overall operational space inventory in comparison with the SFDB to ascertain changes and trends.

c.       To make timely recommendations following review to the President for his endorsement for implementation.

 

Normally, requests for changes in space assignment and utilization will be initiated at the departmental level and forwarded through the appropriate dean to the responsible vice president who in turn will propose the change(s) to the Committee through the Director of Planning and Construction Management.

 

All units or subunits affected by a potential change in a space assignment should be consulted in the reassignment process.

 

The Space Allocation Committee will meet on a regular basis to act upon proposals.  It is understood that this may require meetings during interim and summer terms as well as during the regular academic year.  The committee shall maintain minutes that will be published to the campus in an appropriate manner.

 

Planning for new facilities and major capital outlay projects will continue to be the responsibility of the University Physical Master Plan committee.

 

The Space Allocation Committee shall number nine persons:

            Two appointed by the Academic Senate for two year, overlapping terms.

Six appointed by the President, at least one of whom shall be from Academic Affairs.

            One student representative appointed by A.S.I. President

The Chair shall be selected by members of the committee.

 

The Director of Facilities Planning and Construction Management shall act as staff to the Space Allocation Committee.