SG OKs phase-in of student fee increase

With responses from 511 students, faculty and staff, one of the largest turnouts for forums and surveys, Student Government passed a resolution to phase in the general fee increases for campus renovations over the next three years.

"I've been very impressed with Student Government through this process," Kathy Mangels, vice president of finance and administration, said. "They've shown great leadership and made a decision that works well for students and the university."

Student Government created an adhoc committee for fee increase when the questions first arose. The committee sent out informational e-mails to student organization presidents and other groups on campus, received feedback, answered questions and set up informational tables at the University Center and Towers.

On Nov. 11 Student Government brought Mangels in to give her presentation at a public meeting for students, faculty and staff and members of the community. After the presentation questions were fielded and small groups were formed by colleges to discuss the bond issue and fee increases. Approximately 100 students, faculty and staff and community members were present at the meeting.

"I think they [Student Government] did a very good job considering the information," Mangels said.

"The committee did a fantastic job putting all the responses and feedback together to come up with the best scenario for current students and future students," Daniel Schuenemeyer, a Student Government senator for the Harrison College of Business and chair of the adhoc committee on fee increases.

"I'm very proud to be a part of Student Government," Schuenemeyer said, who cited the time Student Government spent on the issue and how much they value student input and how many students responded to the issue as commendable.

"At this time financially everyone is strapped," Angela Meyer, director of Facilities Management, said. She thinks the resolution Student Government chose will put student's mind at ease, unlike implementing the whole $5 increase one year would.

The $5 student fee increase will be phased in over the next three years, the first and second year raising $2 and the third year raising only $1. The $58.3 million renovations project shouldn't be halted even though the university isn't getting the money all at once.

Meyer said the phase-in money will get the university started and if needed the bonds can be funded through other sources.

"The renovations were going to take three years anyway," she said.

Mangels said engineers are already under contract and are in the process of making more detailed plans and timelines.

"I'm very grateful they [Student Government] are willing to help us help the university," Meyer said.