In today’s trying financial times, word that the local community college is raising tuition might not sit well with some. And that’s understandably so.

However, in the case of McLennan Community College, we urge readers to consider how much the college on the hill in North Waco serves our community and how little it actually asks in return.

The MCC board of trustees Tuesday approved an increase of $12 per semester-hour for in-district students and $14 per semester-hour for out-of-district students.

This is the biggest tuition increase in the school’s history and will put MCC among the most expensive community colleges in the state. That’s undoubtedly a distinction the school doesn’t want to have, MCC board Chairman Randy Cox told the Trib.

But the increase is much-needed.

Added funds will offset a budget shortfall caused by less state funding. All state-funded agencies have been told to expect at least a 5 percent reduction in state appropriations next year. Last year, MCC had to give back 5 percent to the state, which hurt financially.

Board trustee vice chairman K. Paul Holt told the Trib the school has been warned this figure could jump to 10 percent this year and that they’re preparing for the worst.

Having a fiscally conservative plan is prudent in this economy. We commend the board and staff for charting this path. Of course, asking students — the majority of whom work part-time jobs (many work full time) — to pay more is a hard request.

But we urge residents to consider all that MCC does for the community by keeping students here in McLennan County, where they receive quality and affordable higher education.

The tuition increase — which takes effect with the June 7 start of summer classes — will raise semester-hour rates to $88 per hour for in-district students and $102 per hour for out-of-district students.

With 9,935 students, MCC nearly rivals Baylor University’s 14,000-student body yet pales in cost comparisons to Baylor’s $1,055 credit-hour fee.

MCC has become so much more than its humble 1966 beginnings in the borrowed barracks of the shuttered James Connally Air Force Base (which is now home to Texas State Technical College).

It offers dozens of degree tracks and continuing education courses; operates the Bosque River stage where free concerts are held in the summer; and teams with local businesses to offer corporate and professional training. MCC even owns a ranch in Bosqueville where veterinary technician students learn hands-on how to treat pigs, cows and goats.

And let’s not forget the hundreds of students attending the University Center at MCC, which offers four-year and graduate programs by partnering with state universities. That keeps our people here, educating them and boosting our county’s job skills. Smart!

Unfortunately, offering all of the above costs money. (MCC has an annual operating budget of about $40 million, Cox said.)

And that’s where we can show some understanding.

“I liken this to a Hurricane Katrina coming out of the Gulf with state funding closing up. Unfortunately, the way to board up the windows is through tuition,” Cox said, adding that plenty of financial aid is available for students.

Together, our community can weather this storm.