Use your own money, COD board

Use your own money, COD board

I was content on sitting back and remaining quiet while conversations went on about COD's buyout of Dr. Breuder's contract - until I read Erin Birt's Guest View on the subject.

First, in contrast to Erin's view, I would think a poor economy would tend to favor a community college. During those times, fewer people would be able to afford a four-year institution and more people would need to pick up additional job skills to compete in a tougher market. If this is true, the economy may have had as much to do with the improvements realized under Dr. Breuder as Erin so nicely credited him for. Second, as president of the college, I would expect Dr. Breuder to perform well in the position he is being paid so handsomely for. Why does society so often seem surprised when someone is successful? Why do we feel the need to compensate someone more when such situation occurs?

Lastly, if someone has performed well and is under contract, why the controversy? Let Dr. Breuder finish his term and then find a replacement. Just because a few board members "felt" a need for change should not mean they should go spend nearly a million dollars of taxpayer's money. I do not comprehend how this can be a bargain if COD is paying two presidents at the same time.

Perhaps a life lesson is in order. My kids used to ask me to buy them something they so desperately needed. When I told them that if they "needed" it so badly they should use their own money; miraculously they didn't need it as bad as they once stated. Perhaps the board should use their own money next time they feel the need.

Todd Burns

Winfield