ELKO " Local governments and Elko businesses are trying to raise money to save the troubled Fire Science Academy in Carlin.
The campus, which is part of the University of Nevada, Reno, faces possible closure because of the state's $1 billion budget deficit.
Elko County commissioners and the city of Elko each have pledged $25,000 this year to help the academy. The city of Carlin has pledged $2,000 and has agreed to waive the academy's water bill.
Local businesses that supply services to the academy, like hotel rooms and meals, also have been discounting their goods.
University regents are scheduled to be briefed on fundraising efforts when they meet in October. A decision on the academy's future could come in December.
Regents discussed closing the facility in August, but allowed time for the academy to come up with a plan to become financially solvent.
Other options being explored include increases in tuition and enrollment, a partnership with Texas A&M University, corporate giving, federal funding and local support.
Elko County Commissioners John Ellison said users of the Fire Science Academy have not only offered monetary assistance, but have supported tuition increases and pledged to send more students to the academy.
A citizens group has been talking with Sen. Harry Reid about federal funding for the academy. It's competitor, Texas A&M, receives $20 million each year from the federal government, Ellison said.