July 11-12, 2002

ITEM 116-2013-R0702     Authorization to Borrow Intercap Funds for Building Network Wiring and Other IT Capital Investments; Montana State University-Bozeman

THAT: The Montana Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes Montana State University-Bozeman to borrow five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) of State Intercap Program funds for building network wiring and other related Information Technology capital purchases.

EXPLANATION: Montana State University-Bozeman has a number of core campus buildings that have not yet received an installation of the Universitys current standard of computer network wiring. These buildings still have thinwire coaxial cable. Replacing this with Category 5e copper cable will enhance the speed and quality of computer transactions, by providing a 100-fold increase in line capacity.

The University recently completed its initial Central Information Technology Capital Replacement Plan, which was developed with the input of the University Planning, Budget & Analysis Committee, as well as the Information Technology Task Force. The completion of network wiring and internet delivery service in core campus buildings was identified as the Plan's top institutional priority.

Montana State University-Bozeman has delegated authority (under the signature of the Associate Commissioner for Financial Affairs) to secure Intercap loans of up to $500,000. However, because the University may wish to extend this line of credit beyond $500,000 sometime in the future, the University has agreed to submit this initial loan for Regent approval.

These funds will be drawn as quickly as work can proceed on the five buildings scheduled for completion. The loan repayment will occur over a period of up to seven years, with funds from non-appropriated operational revenues such as existing telecom line charges, and from distributions of available bond indenture other lawful purpose funds.