In the online edition of “The Simpsonian” a disgruntled Simpson College student commented on an article on Student Government Association budget allocations. The student was irritated on how funds were allocated for the student groups and let their feelings be heard loud and clear, without ever attempting to approach members of SGA and talk to the people who could possibly remedy the situation.

In my opinion, the main issue at hand was a lack of knowledge and communication. This student has never been to an SGA meeting; which are always open to the public and the student probably didn’t read the minutes either, to know why the budget was appropriated the way it was. If this student would have known the details and conversations that actually went on regarding the budget, I’m sure they wouldn’t have been quite so irate. So, I thought I would use this week’s column to update the student body on how SGA is working for you. So, if you do have questions/cares/comments/concerns you can talk to us and get them handled, rather then vent on-line.

One of our bigger goals this year is to work on implementing a “one card” program, which would allow you to use your student ID on vending machines, washers and dryers, Holy Grounds and a few other places on campus. You would also be able to put money on your card online, using a normal credit or debit card too. We think this would make things a little easier for you because you wouldn’t have to worry about finding quarters or carry cash all the time. This project is still in the research stage and isn’t something that will happen overnight. If we find out it is something that can happen, we’ll work hard to get it on campus, but the realities are that it probably wouldn’t take effect until next fall.

The other big project SGA has is the discussion on the new student center fee. This decision won’t only affect current Simpson students, but it will have an impact on future students as well. Come to an SGA meeting, ask questions, e-mail your class representatives and get the information you need, so you can let us know how you feel on the student center fee.

And as always, we’re always ready to discuss and work on an issue that comes up and it’s something you think needs addressed. Whether it’s getting security cameras in the parking lots or too much noise in the library, we want to do our best to make sure you enjoy your time here at Simpson. So feel free to let us know what’s going on and what we can do to help you out.

While SGA can’t solve every issue and make everyone happy, we want to do our best to make your voice heard. So, let us know how you feel. E-mail your class representatives, myself or your student body vice-president, come to an SGA meeting, or leave a comment in our on-line comment box. Let us know what you think of the “onecard” program. Let us know what you think about the student center fee. The members of SGA are always wanting to hear what you’re thoughts are, so let us know. Senate members can’t make the decision you’d like them if you don’t let them know how you feel.