The University Council is giving the Office of the Ombudsman a longer leash to operate on.

The University Affairs Committee suggested the council retain the Office of the Ombudsman in its current form, but lengthen the frequency of the office’s review.

The council, in accordance with its bylaws, appoints a committee, the UAC, to review the ombudsman’s office every four years. The suggested changes propose a review every eight years, or when the office becomes vacant.

Because the proposal is contrary to current bylaws, the Rules and Governance Committee will have to consider it.

Also, the ombudsman, currently Tim Griffin, would be invited to provide an annual oral report.

The proposed changes would not affect how often Griffin, or any future ombudsman, would receive a performance review.

“It is not a guarantee it will go through. It has kind of gone back and forth,” said Paul Stoddard, executive secretary of University Council. “Anything having to do with that office has never been a slam dunk. They might look at it and see that something else is a better idea.”

Stoddard said it is possible the council would vote on the proposal during its March meeting.

Brian Hemphill, Vice President for Student Affairs, recommended the Student Affairs Professional Staff Advisory Committee be dissolved. Hemphill said the committee has been defunct for more than six years and the new grievance procedures for faculty and staff serve the committee’s original purpose.

Patricia Henry, NIU representative to the Faculty Advisory Committee of the Illinois Board of Higher Education, told the council that the 2006 IBHE budget is available for online viewing.

Wednesday’s meeting was held in the Regency Room of the Holmes Student Center due to remodeling in the Clara Sperling Sky Room.

Although no official room change has been announced, Stoddard said it is highly unlikely the next meeting would be held in the Sky Room due to continued renovations.

The next council meeting is scheduled from 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 16.