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News

SFAC hears fee requests

COUGAR NEWS STAFF

The Student Fees Advisory Committee met Wednesday to discuss the rising cost of energy, an issue that could lead to a utility fee for students.

"It would be a mandatory fee for all students," William Munson, dean of students, said.

Utility costs increased 43 percent during Fiscal Year 2006 and increases for FY 2007 have not been projected. The University faces $12 million in budget shortfalls for FY 2006 and an estimated $17 million in FY 2007. 

Keith Kowalka, director of the University Center and associated facilities, and Noel Clarke, UC business office administrator, proposed a $47,217 one-time allocation for a new marquee to be placed in the UC. The marquee would act as an advertising outlet for businesses and student organizations.

The representatives also said that because the UC is responsible for funding repairs for the building's foundation and renovations to dining areas, their revenue will not be enough to pay for the project.

UH Child Care Center director Sherry Howard submitted a $15,000 augmentation request for the center to fund financial assistance for student parents.

"We're always looking at ways to help families stay in school," Howard said.

Associate Dean of Students Kamran Riaz spoke on behalf of the Student Information and Assistance Center. 

The SIAC is requesting a $10,000 increase in budget to help attract better permanent personnel as well as offering increased salary to part-time student workers in the information center to decrease turnover in that area. 

The committee raised concern regarding the information center employee dress code, suggesting a uniform be implemented.

The SIAC runs the information center on the first floor of the UC and offers appointments to help students with questions and problems regarding the University.

Assistant Dean of Students Lizetta Frederick represented the Success program, which provides mentoring and networking programs for freshmen. 

She asked the committee to allocate the same budget as the previous year. 

Student Publications Director Dick Cigler said the department will need a $2,060 SFAC allocation increase to cover rising energy costs.

SFAC hearings will resume Friday at 8:45 a.m. in the UC Bluebonnet Room. 
 

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