Crystal Owen, Chiu Choi, Rama Rao (Chair), Robb M. Waltner (secretary)

Matthew M. Taylor and Wallace Harris, Physical Facilities

Physical Facilities coordinates and manages all activities related to grounds, custodial services, HVAC, minor repairs, and campus recycling. This unit basically oversees and manages most physical infrastructure on campus. This unit reports to Shari Shuman.

The subcontractor for most controls in campus buildings is W.W.Gay Facilities Automation. This company also does installs on most capital construction projects on campus. Most programming of campus systems is also subcontracted out. UNF technicians go to schools to get training on systems when they become the university’s responsibility.

Physical Facilities purchases classroom furniture, but not for new construction. Dealing with broken furniture and maintenance of classroom amenities (such as chalkboards, carpeting, lighting) are also their responsibility. The unit has an e-mail address: pfwork@unf.edu. This e-mail address can be used to report problems. The UPD can be called after-hours for emergencies and “on-call” personnel can be contacted if required.

Harris reported that “green boards” are replacing blackboards nationwide. Allergies to both chalk dust and ink from white board markers have impacted the use of these materials in classrooms. Owen asked if it was okay for faculty to hang pictures in their offices. Harris reported that is okay, and that Physical Facilities will assist with such projects. Physical Facilities will also assist with the removal of broken furniture from classrooms.

Rama asked about the number of chairs in classrooms. Rooms are outfitted with the maximum number of chairs allowed by the Fire Marshall, but this causes congestion when the room is full of students and belongings. Taylor reported that the Registrar’s office plays a role in this because of the need to schedule classroom space for the largest class possible.

Harris reported that enhancing classrooms is difficult because classrooms are never off-line. Since it is difficult to access classrooms for changes unless there are no classes scheduled, much of this work is done late at night or on vacation periods or breaks.

Building 11 is to be demolished in September 2006. The problems in Building 50 were discussed. This building has problems with leaks. There are now on-going discussions about whether the fault lies in the design or the construction of the building and about long-term solutions.

Back-up generators provide power to emergency systems only (some lights, elevator, and certain circuits) when power goes out. The generators are powered by diesel fuel. Outlets with red covers are outlets which are connected to emergency circuits.

Taylor reported that additional staffing is provided each time a new building is constructed on campus. It is basically a formula based on square footage. Harris said that his operation has sufficient manpower; the challenge is coordinating it and using it in the proper way.

Rats—some rats have been found on campus in garbage collection areas, etc. A pest control company does trap and exterminate them. Bats—campus is practicing “exclusion” using netting to keep bats away from entering buildings and providing “bat houses” where bats can live. Canadian Geese—no longer migratory--these animals can make a mess on the grounds and they can attack people who come to close to nests and offspring. There is no plan to move them off campus.

9A/I-295 construction—the main campus entrance will be closed for 3 weeks in May as road and ramp construction is completed.