During the late 1980s, as part of Refocusing, Rebalancing and Refining (R3), the Physical Plant developed the following guidelines with input from faculty committees.

Guidelines Used to Prioritize Service Responsibilities

• Maintain security and safety systems (door locks, hinges, fire alarms, etc.)
• Assure reliability of utility systems (heat, electricity, water, gas, and communications).
• Satisfy codes, laws and regulations regarding operations, safety and sanitation.
• Keep weather out of buildings; maintain roofs, exterior walls, windows and doors.
• Avoid property loss; maintain exterior paint, floor finishes, water treatment chemicals, fire sprinklers, etc.
• Maintain building appurtenances (chalkboards, fixed seating, lighting, etc.) at standards necessary for teaching and research.
• Maintain energy consuming systems to avoid waste.
• Maintain occupant comfort and convenience (elevators, air conditioning, etc.).
• Keep up the appearance of the "campus front door"; entrance lobbies and first floor corridors have priority.

Significant service reductions and eliminations have occurred in addressing the budget difficulties since 1980-81; however, all buildings and building systems continue to function. Admittedly, several buildings are in poor condition, and those built in the 60s have major components nearing the end of their predicted life.