The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Chief Reporter

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

FORMER College of the Bahamas president Dr Rodney Smith is still locked in negotiations over his salary to return to the top spot at the institution.

College Council Chairman Alfred Sears yesterday confirmed that Dr Smith has not yet accepted the presidential post as the negotiating team works to secure an agreement over pay and benefits.

“It’s ongoing,” Mr Sears said. “From what I understand from the negotiating team, they have put forward a proposal in terms of salary and benefits to him, and he has come back with a counter proposal. He can’t accept until we have an agreement of salary and benefits.

“We would hope that it’s concluded quickly, but in negotiations you have to have a meeting of the minds in terms of what the institution can afford and that’s the process that’s been worked out now.”

In June, the College Council recommended that Dr Smith be chosen as COB’s new president, acting on a recommendation made by its Advisory Search Committee.

While some, including businessman and former COB Council Chairman Franklyn Wilson, have made public statements opposing his reappointment, Dr Smith reportedly enjoys widespread support within the college.

Last month, Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald confirmed that the council would engage Dr Smith in negotiations for a three-year contract, with the option to renew.

Classes began at the college on August 26. The college has accepted almost 1,700 new students for the Fall semester.