"If that happens (costs go way up), we will squeeze elsewhere in the budget."

CCC is considering going to a four-day schedule, which would help alleviate some heating costs, Woodward added.

In addition to receiving state and local funding, CCC will increase tuition by $90 per semester, making tuition costs for a full year $3,400.

"We're still in the middle of the pack," Moffett told legislators at Wednesday night's Finance Committee meeting.

To help offset the budget expenses, CCC is using about $225,000 from its fund balance. That would leave a fund balance of about $1,113,000.

Legislators will hold a public hearing on the college's budget request July 23 and will vote on it later that evening.

"We are happy to have you in our community," Finance Committee Chairman Robert Heins (R-Area 10, City of Plattsburgh) said.

"You definitely provide an exciting educational opportunity for the people of the North Country, and we appreciate it."

jlotemplio@pressrepublican.com