USG voices campus concerns

On Thursday, March 4, the Undergraduate Student Government attempted to renew its connection with the student body by organizing its second town hall meeting of the year.

Hosted by Senator Melissa Lok and Chief of Staff Andi Muskaj, the meeting's agenda overviewed USG's past accomplishments followed by upcoming initiatives. A moderate crowd of students, USG members and Student Life staff gathered in a relaxed setting to discuss campus concerns.

President Tanvir Hossain, who led the meeting's discussion, focused on the intimate nature of the gathering and geared it to set the dynamic of the meeting.

"Since we have a tight-knit group, I want the focus and priority to be on all of you guys here," said Hossain.

Hossain began the presentation with a discussion of USG's three core initiatives of accessibility, transparency, and accountability. He also spoke about recent changes and additions within the student government, including an open door policy, scheduled office hours and an updated website.

In regards to club funding, Hossain displayed a spreadsheet that showed USG's revenue funds, leaving the audience surprised at the large figures. During his explanation of the details behind the allocation of funds for program lines, Hossain emphasized the fiscal responsibility USG employed in executing financial decisions.

"The Senior Affairs line is traditionally designated towards the yearly senior bash," said Hossain. "While last year's USG allocated $40,000 to the event we were able to slash it down to $20,000." As part of this budget decrease, Hossain announced that the upcoming senior trip would take place in Atlantic City rather than last year's Chelsea Piers.

Hossain announced his plan to increase all club budgets by 50 percent, an initiative that would be achieved by raising the current student activity fee by $25. While last year's student body rejected this proposal, Hossain predicts the upcoming referendum will be supported.

"There was a communication breakdown between last year's USG and the students," said Hossain. "The most important thing is for the students to be educated on this issue which will lead them to see the rationality in this proposal."

Hossain continued with conversation about the minimal effects of the fee increase on students.

"Since most students in this school are on financial aid, they won't have to pay a dime," stated Hossain. "At other colleges in New York, such as St. John's University and New York University, students pay almost $1,000 for their fee so I think this is quite a bargain."

"A lot of students come to me and complain about funding and how they can't get enough money for their clubs," said Torabi. "You also have to consider that as time goes on, prices needed to hold events increases."

In order for the student activity fee increase to go into effect, 10 percent of the Baruch student body needs to vote, with 50 percent choosing in favor of the proposal.

"We would really like your help to get the word out," said Hossain. "Just let people know the true impact this fee increase will have on the school."