Our Opinion

Vote “no” on referendum one, “yes” on number two

IN ADDITION TO electing Associated Students officers this week, students will be faced with two referendums to decide on.

The first would increase student fees by $30 per semester to technology service improvements, including expanded e-mail capacity and enhancements to help-desk services.

While these improvements are in principle a good idea, the referendum itself is somewhat poorly planned and requires more thought.

The concerns expressed by the Associated Students Senate at the body’s March 23 meeting sum these issues up well.

In a unanimous vote, the Senate voted against the passage of the measure, largely on the grounds that the money raised would not have proper oversight and management.

Technology improvements are important to the future of Fresno State and are critical to keeping graduates competitive in the job market, yet this referendum is not the best means by which to obtain these improvements.

The referendum’s backers would be well advised to refine their plan and present a modified version including more specifics on how the money will be managed and spend.

While students should reject the first referendum on the ballot, they should strongly consider voting in favor of the second.

This measure would raise student fees by $10 per semester to add money to a fund that pays for study abroad opportunities and other instructionally related activities.

While it is true that a relatively small number of students will utilize these funds, those who study abroad often undergo life-changing experiences overseas and bring back unique perspectives to the rest of the student body.

This fee is not a huge increase and will be money well spent for those who choose and have the opportunities to use it.

In addition to study abroad opportunities, these funds will also go in part to campus clubs and organizations, as well as students who seek educational opportunities not available in the classroom.

If this referendum passes, many more students will have the chance to not only travel abroad but also take part in a number of educational opportunities closer to home, such as conferences in their field of study and other events.

It is important that this second referendum pass in order to increase the educational opportunities of the students who rely in these funds.

Comment on this story in the Opinion forum >>