By John Santucci
I've been thinking these last few days about this new green initiative. If I speak my mind I'll come across as someone who could care no less about the environment. If I don't speak my mind, I'll be paying more money for something I do not agree with. For those of you who are a commuters, you know what I mean when I say parking at the University is probably the most frustrating part of your day. We drive around, often for what seems like forever, up the lane, down the lane, around the bend, from one lot to another. We race down California Avenue attempting not to hit anyone (and that is a challenge since University students and faculty just love to jaywalk). A commuter makes it to the lot that is supposed to be just for us, by Breslin Hall. If you are a commuter, how many times have you seen the letter "R" on a bumper? If you're like me you don't smile or laugh, usually a few very bad words will pass through your lips.
So, back to this "green plan." Have you heard if you go to Syracuse or any other university, you must pay a parking fee? I have and here is my response, "That is wonderful. I go to Hofstra and I like my free parking." If this is passed, here is what I think would be fair compensation: 1. University commuters are guaranteed parking behind Breslin and behind CV Starr Halls. 2. The University should invest in a parking garage. 3. All students pay this green fee, and not just those who commute or have a car.
With the establishment of a new medical school, higher enrollment and many more plans there will be more students and faculty, and yet the same amount of parking will remain. It will not work. Additionally, everyone has seen their tuition bills creep higher and higher numbers as time as gone. A message to freshmen: please pull out your bill from 2008-2009 and compare it to the one you will receive in the fall, compare, contrast and accept this as your advanced notice.
To those who want to go green, I applaud you. I will work with you anyway I can. I will recycle my bottles and cans, I will e-mail more and print less, I will use silverware and not plastic utensils. However, I will not support your parking fee. Should this be passed here is my promise: I will pay for my books, and my tuition however I will deduct $25 from the amount I pay. I speak for many when I say, don't force it down our throats.
John Santucci is a sophomore broadcast journalism student. You may e-mail him at jsantu6@pride.hofstra.edu.