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The actual budget reduction may need to be as much as $1.5 million, said Marlene Propst, the college’s director of advancement. In addition to staff reductions, proposed cuts also would be made in materials, services and capital outlay. Propst said payroll accounts for about 83 percent of the college’s $38 million budget.Last summer, the Legislature approved a budget bill providing $428 million for community colleges. The state’s community college presidents said they needed a minimum of $440 million to avoid large tuition hikes and program cuts.Since 2001, LBCC has cut 41 full-time equivalent jobs and eliminated more than 379 class sections, officials noted.“Since that time, we have added back some class sections to accommodate student demand for classes meeting degree requirements,” Propst said. “Students have fewer choices on when they can take classes meeting degree requirements. Overall, classes are running closer to maximum seat capacity.”LBCC President Rita Cavin said community college financial support has suffered as state funds have been directed toward increasing health care costs and corrections.“It pains me beyond measure that LBCC is in this situation,” Cavin said. “However, it is essential to focus on the long-term financial picture and maintain the college’s ability to accomplish its comprehensive - more available