Rockland County Legislators have unanimously approved the 2025-2026 budget for Rockland Community College (RCC), with nearly one-third of the funding coming from county taxpayers.
The $61.85 million spending plan, crafted by RCC’s administration and unanimously approved by the college’s Board of Trustees, was reviewed by the County Executive before being presented to legislators. As the college’s local sponsor, Rockland County will contribute approximately $18 million to the upcoming fiscal year’s budget — about one-third of the total — in accordance with state requirements.
The new budget reflects a modest 0.2% increase from the current year and does not include any additional staff positions. It also maintains a $1.5 million fund balance, as required by SUNY’s Budget Office, to cover unexpected costs and support cash flow.
Tuition will remain flat at $2,832 per semester, or $5,667 for the academic year. RCC expects 3,661 full-time equivalent (FTE) students, a slight dip from 3,680 in the current fiscal year. The tuition rate ranks RCC 12th among SUNY’s 31 community colleges, aligning with regional peers and slightly under the statewide average of $5,777.
In recent weeks, legislators confirmed the appointment of RCC’s new president, Dr. William P. Mullaney, and met with college officials to address ongoing challenges, including finances and enrollment. Earlier this year, RCC faced a projected $4 million deficit and cash-flow shortfall, but the administration has been working to close the gap.
“Legislators all agree that RCC is a vital institution serving the educational needs of so many,” said Legislature Chairman Jay Hood Jr. “We are hopeful that moving forward, and with new leadership, the college will stabilize and improve its finances and grow its enrollment.”
Talk about assimilation.