Student Government proposes changes for Cats Cruiser

By Jen Taylor

Options for saving the Cats Cruiser program money was discussed at Wednesday’s Student Government meeting.

The program costs $180,832.03 for two semesters, with runs going from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday through Sunday.

The proposed change would have the bus operating from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m., which would cost $157,136.38, saving a total amount of $23,695.65.

“This year I feel like senators are really taking things more seriously, being more conscientious about the budget and making sure that the funds are being used wisely,” said Annie Tiu, Senate President.

Although SG did not vote on the change, they will to vote soon in order to sign a new 18-month contract with Lextran in the next few weeks.

The change go into effect on Jan. 12, 2012.

A unanimous vote granted the Graduate Appalachian Research Community $2,500.

This money is to support a key speaker for their yearly research symposium and arts showcase for student researchers and artists which will take place in February.

Micah Fielden, SG president, announced an upcoming rally for higher education and strongly encouraged student senators to attend.

“We really want to be more involved with things like the Rally for Higher Education,” Tiu said. “That is what the student senators are here for— to advocate for students.”

Last on the agenda was the proposal to change an amendment that would allow two students, chosen by President Eli Capilouto, to be non- voting members on the Advisory Council.

The two students would add to the council’s five voting Board of Trustees members and three non-voting community advisory members.

The motion was passed to change the existing amendment and to send it as a proposal to the Board of Trustees.