May 18-19, 2000

ITEM 107-1021-R0500   Use of State Lands Under the Control of the Montana University System (MUS) by the Montana National Guard for the Purpose of Constructing and Operating, on a Long-term Basis, an Education and Training Facility (Armory); The University of Montana-Missoula

THAT: The Board of Regents of the Montana University System authorizes The University of Montana to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with the Montana National Guard to locate a new education and training facility (Armory) on University lands at Fort Missoula adjacent to the College of Technology West campus. The Armory will be constructed and operated without financial obligation or cost to the Montana University System. Use of referenced land will be without cost to the Montana National Guard.

EXPLANATION: Location of the Armory will create collaborative educational opportunities between the National Guard and the University in which the Montana University System will have access to the State-wide network of educational teleconferencing sites developed by the Montana National Guard. Additionally, the proximity of the Armory at the College of Technology West campus will allow the National Guard greater access to the University educational resources. Finally, the University and the National Guard will explore the potential of locating the current Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs to the Armory if there is programmatic benefit.

It is anticipated that the Montana National Guard will be granted use of ten acres of property at the Fort Missoula COT West campus without charge. The exact site of the building will be determined after survey. The Montana National Guard will have the right to use the property for 50 years. The Montana National Guard will be solely responsible for all costs of construction, maintenance and operation expenses. In return, the Montana University System is granted the right to use the facilities for distance learning and other related educational activities as mutually agreed upon by the parties. It is anticipated that the teleconferencing capabilities will greatly enhance the University System's access to the State in delivery of outreach and educational services.

The University of Montana seeks the authority to proceed with the planning of this project and to execute a Memorandum of Understanding developed between the parties and approved by the Commissioner of Higher Education.