BUTLER TWP— Butler County Community College was forced to revise its budget after student enrollment fell short of expectations.

The BC3 board of directors Wednesday passed a rebudget that reduced expenses in salaries and benefits to compensate for a loss of $373,946 in student tuition and fees.

President Cynthia Azari said the reductions in salaries was made possible by two full-time positions that were filled with part-time staff when a permanent teacher couldn't be found in time for the start of the school year.

Additionally, she said, the former vice president for finances left in May and the position wasn't filled until October.

The expected costs for salaries and benefits were each reduced by $175,000. Other line items were cut to a smaller degree to cover the remaining deficit.

Student enrollment this semester was down about 3 percent. Officials at the college speculate the high gasoline costs and growing economy contributed to the decline.

Azari said summer enrollment is on target to meet goals.