Adams says layoffs could happen in 2004-2005 fiscal year

<p>University of Georgia President Michael Adams said layoffs are possible in the next fiscal year if the school has to make another round of large budget cuts.</p><p>We have a plan that gets us through this fiscal year in pretty good standing. But if we have to endure another significant cut, I dont see any way we can avoid layoffs, he told reporters Tuesday after a University Cabinet meeting.</p><p>Adams said the school is down roughly $58 million in state support, which includes 2.5 percent in cuts requested by Gov. Sonny Perdue of all state agencies in August. Perdue also has requested 5 percent cuts in the next fiscal year, which begins July 1, 2004.</p><p>The university avoided layoffs this year by not filling vacant positions and assigning teachers heavier work loads and through attrition.</p><p>Weve asked faculty to teach more, we have 800 more students than we have initially prepared for, we have 900 unfilled positions across the board, Adams said. Everyone has had to work harder, not just me.</p><p>Adams said the budget problems, the controversy surrounding his decision not to extend Athletic Director Vince Dooleys contract and an audit critical of his use of fund-raising dollars have been the most difficult parts of this term.</p><p>The state Board of Regents gave Adams job security by reaffirming its support for the president and dismissing the audit in October. But Adams said he has learned from the events of the past several months.</p><p>Im committed to being a little better servant myself, said Adams, whom some have criticized for running the university like a CEO.</p><p>I want to make sure Im seen as somebody leading and serving, not somebody just trying to manage.</p>