The cost of going to school at Clovis Community College will go up a buck starting in the summer.

The CCC Board of Trustees approved a minimal tuition increase during Tuesday’s meeting. The cost of one credit hour rose from $29 to $30 for in-state students, while out-of-state students will pay $5 more per credit hour when they take seven or more credit hours.

The college is increasing tuition to qualify for $60,000 in state appropriations.

CCC President John Neibling said the New Mexico Higher Education Department sets a base tuition rate for colleges. Those who meet the rate qualify for state money for salaries and support services.

“They set a base and if we don’t change what they say is the base, they keep money from us,”  Neibling said.

CCC Vice President for Administration David Pacheco said the state board’s rate is arbitrary and always increases. In 2005, CCC increased its tuition by the same rate to meet the tuition base the board set.

“There’s no rhyme or reason to it,” Pacheco said.

In other business:

• Board members approved a fee increase for the summer and fall semesters. The increase was brought on by rise in the cost of supplies, according to Neibling.

• Enrollment in the Spring Semester increased 5.5 percent, according to an enrollment report. Enrollment this spring was 1,528 from 1,448 last year.

• Board members renewed a contract for Ramona Munsell and Associates. The firm provides grant development and consultant services for the college’s Title V and TRIO programs.

• Board members approved an audit of the college’s 2007-2008 fiscal year.