We would like to have our students accommodated in affordable housing close to campus. Up to this point we have only allowed private housing to address this, with the exception of Birnam Wood. Nick Zaferatos proposed that consideration be given to the housing question, especially in establishing criteria that would support sensible development for the university as well as the community. Vice Chair Utendale suggested inviting Kay Rich, Director of University Residences, to speak to the Committee. Transportation is a significant factor when the Cordata bus takes 45 mins.
Students find it is much more expensive to live on campus even with buying a limited meal package.
He spoke of his past position as the Governor's director for legislative relations and his 14 years with the University of Washington as their chief lobbyist in Olympia. Recently he completed a 2-day media tour with President Morse which involved the Seattle Times and the Bellingham Herald, and has formed a University Advancement Team that includes administrators, faculty and students. The purpose is to analyze our themes and message as a university, and to get the story out. He commented that the legislature may end up with a 49-49 tie again. No one can predict the result on any given issue.