Ocean County College officials have adopted a 30-page restructuring plan that includes 13 layoffs, charting a new course for the college and bridging a $1.58 million budget gap.

There were no changes in the plan adopted Friday from the one aired Monday by the trustees, when two of the employees who are being let go criticized it and asked for reconsideration.

OCC President Dr. Jon Larson said he has received comments since Monday that will be considered, promising to "incorporate any we feel are constructive.''

"It's a work in progress,'' said Harvey York, one of the trustees who voted for the plan. He said he had received a number of emailed suggestions for the plan. "Many are worth consideration, some aren't,'' he explained.

The layoffs will save the college $739,157. Those cuts, along with eliminating new and vacant positions along with a series of transfers of employees will cut the fiscal 2012 budget by a total of $1.58 million.

The plan does more.

Borrowing, instead of expecting aid from the state, will be used for future building and major maintenance projects. State aid to community colleges has dried up and the new approach "frees the college from the uncertainties of state support and guarantees facilities that can meet the needs of our steadily growing student population.''

The borrowing will be done using the county's AAA bond rating to cut interest expenses. The resulting annual debt service costs of $2 million to $3 million a year is a "manageable commitment,'' according to the plan.

The curriculum will be adjusted to better meet student demands, and distance learning via computers will be marketed nationwide and to active duty military personnel. Attempts to offer OCC associate degrees in foreign countries using distance learning are continuing.

Energy costs will be cut by installing a solar array on the roof of Bartlett Hall capable of generating 18 kilowatts of power. A combined heat and power plant is being added to provide electricity, hot water and cold water.