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Opinion
 

Letters to the Editor

Constructive ways to defend basement

To the editor:

As the area coordinator at Taub Hall, I, and on behalf of Residential Life and Housing, would like to positively and constructively respond to Jim McCormick's column regarding the unauthorized use of the Taub basement ("Annoyance invades Taub basement," Opinion, Friday).

Recently, organizations have been confronted by RLH staff for using space, specifically the basements, in the Quadrangle without permission. These groups are told that they are not allowed to use basements for whatever purpose they have intended and are asked to leave. They are then told not to come back. Apparently, this approach hasn't been as effective as one would hope.

The easy question is: "How are these people who don't live in the building getting in?" The obvious answer is that residents who have a right to enter let them into the building. RLH urges all residents to take ownership of their space and security. Don't allow entrance to people who are just waiting for the door to open. You don't have to let anyone in, and you have the right and responsibility to tell someone that you aren't letting in. You don't know who they are or what they're capable of doing once inside.

I suggest a different course of action in confronting these groups contrary to those offered. We do not condone escalating the situation by getting into a "war of the wills," but would rather encourage a more constructive approach. Be assertive and politely ask the group the leave. If that doesn't work or if you don't feel comfortable approaching them yourself, alert the appropriate area office or the on call staff. We will then confront the group and deal with the situation. 

Space on campus for organizations is at a premium. While I understand that space is limited, I also know that there is no free space on campus. Just like the University Center, RLH also charges for space reservations to outside groups. However, the residence hall basements are not included. They are there solely for the residents' use. 

Eric J. Morrow
Department of Residential 
Life and Housing
Quadrangle Area Coordinator
 

Letters to the editor are welcome from all members of the UH community and should focus on issues, not personalities. Letters must be typed and must include the author's name, telephone number and affiliation with the University. Anonymous letters will not be published. Letters are subject to editing for clarity, language and space. Letters may be delivered in person to Room 151, Communication; e-mailed to dclettrs@mail.uh.edu ; or faxed to (713) 743-5384.