Posted: Feb 26, 2010 3:30 AM
Updated: Feb 26, 2010 3:30 AM
TUCSON - All three Arizona university presidents have proposed an increase in tuition, but it is the fees that are sparking reaction from some students.
If these plans pass, the U of A would have the highest tuition in the state. Now, on top of a just-pitched $1,450 dollar tuition hike, there would be about $700 extra dollars in fees.
This could all take effect this fall but not before students have their say.
"The fee process and the process of setting and creating mandatory fees is out of control," UA student Connor Mendenhall said.
Mendenhall just set up a Facebook group Wednesday night to gather support against proposed fee increases at the University of Arizona. They already have more than 400 members.
"We've been blown away by the support we have," Mendenhall said.
The proposed increases in fees add up to $665 dollars.
"Those three combined make up a large number but they are all very targeted to specific uses," said UA President Robert Shelton.
Here is the breakdown: $24 dollars for Campus Sustainability, $306 for Health and Recreation, and $335 for Library Information. There also could be a permanent yearly tuition surcharge of $766 dollars. It all comes out to more than $1,400 dollars, and that is not counting the tuition increase. But Shelton says it is necessary.
"In the next couple of years, we need to make up about $60 million in order to sustain the quality, in order to make sure that the University of Arizona degree still carries the great value that it does today," Shelton said Thursday.
Within the past 18 months, the state has slashed $100 million dollars from the U of A. They have recovered $40 million by eliminating programs and consolidating others, but now they need the fees to pay for what is left. Some students say they understand.
"It hurts me both in my pocketbook and to see struggling students too but the options are slim at this point given the situation at the state level," said student Lon Huber.
Mendenhall's Facebook group agrees, they will pay the fees if the students get a say in what they are and where they go.
"We're not necessarily opposed to new fees, in many cases they are necessary. But we would like to see students have more of a voice in that process," Mendenhall said.
Shelton says these are just proposals. He also says the university will work with students who cannot afford tuition through financial aid. There is a meeting on Monday on campus and students will have a chance to voice their opinions. The Board of Regents will have the final say after their vote on the hikes on March 11th.
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