Enrollment decline causes changes in custodial services, CMU officials say
Central Michigan University can expect to see some changes to the general upkeep of campus this fall semester, said the university's spokesperson, Aaron Mills.
The declining enrollment is one of the factors that caused the staffing changes in facilities management, Mills said.
In 2025, the number of custodians had decreased to 69, which is a 25% decrease in staffing since 2017, when CMU employed 92 custodians, said Associate Vice President of Facilities Management Jonathan Webb.
“Adjustments have been made across campus in response to reductions in staffing and resources," Webb said. "These changes have included expanding second and third shift opportunities, implementing team-based cleaning strategies and prioritizing the upkeep of common areas.
"Operations continue to evolve in response to a variety of changing factors, including budgets, staffing levels, staff experience, enrollment, facility usage and age, and advancements in cleaning materials and methods."
These changes aren't expected to affect students and are primarily impacting some administrative facilities such as Combined Services, Central Energy Facility and Public Broadcasting for the time being, Webb said.
At this time, residence hall lobbies, dining halls and academic buildings will continue to be evaluated regularly to ensure that services align with the available resources.
“Their commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and functional campus environment remains unwavering, even as they navigate ongoing constraints,” said Webb.
Webb asks that the university community be "mindful of their surroundings by cleaning up after themselves."
