This is exactly as it was stated in the email sent out today to the Student Body:
Dear Student Body,
I am writing today representing the Executive Board of the College of Charleston Student Government Association. I would first to thank all of the students who replied to President Brown’s original email regarding Governor Sanford’s decision about the stimulus money. In order to address the concerns expressed the Executive Board would like to inform students about both viewpoints.
We all believe in maintaining the stability and legacy of the College of Charleston, the debate lies in how that should be accomplished. It is the opinion of some that the best way is to take the stimulus money offered to Gov. Sanford and funnel it as a one-time injection into higher education this year. That opinion is shared by President Brown. In the interest of allowing open discussion for all sides of the argument the executive board would like the following viewpoint to be presented.
Governor Sanford believes that the financial injection will be best utilized by paying off the current debt the state has acquired. He believes that by paying off the debt, tax revenues will not be allocated to interest and instead will be allocated to the schools. Governor Sanford has made it very clear he will accept the money if the State Legislature frees up equal amounts of money to pay off the debt.
The other side of the argument states that the stimulus money would provide a necessary injection into the state budget. As the College of Charleston continues to tighten its belt and cut costs in every manageable way, we desperately need our share of the $119 million dollars in one-time funding. This amount, in particular, is being directed to South Carolina higher education. Both sides of the argument want what is best for the state, its educational institutions and its economy, the difference lies in the method.
If you would like to voice your opinion please contact your elected senators whose contact information can be found at www.cofc.edu/sga.
The Executive Board encourages all students to research every side of this issue and act as they would deem appropriate. If you would like to contact Governor Sanford and voice your opinion he can be reached at: mark@gov.sc.gov
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– Peter J Neiger, SGA Vice President
On behalf of the SGA Executive Board