FUSA Senate starts with a new crew

In the first Senate meeting of the 45th FUSA Senate and the final FUSA senate meeting of the year, the organization passed three new resolutions, wrapped up several large issues that have been covered over the course of the year and introduced the new members to the various Senate process and policies.

A presentation on the FUSA budget by FUSA President Jeff Seiser’ 10 and Treasurer Nicole Barone’ 09 explained the budget in depth and answered the questions of the concerned FUSA senators.

Seiser said he wants to tighten the future budget and ensure that no more money is spent in excess, or without official approval. He added that some events appear to be over budget on paper, but are still awaiting payment from venues and returns from ticket sales.

Next, Senate Chair Dan Lamendola’ 09 introduced himself, explained the resolution process and turned the floor over to Senate Vice-chair Mary Crowley’ 09. Crowley immediately brought up the issue of dress code and mandated that senators do not wear jeans, T-shirts or sneakers.

Public Safety officer Duane Corey told the Senators the Jail ‘n’ Bail event hosted last Wednesday by Public Safety rose close to $22,000, breaking the record for a single day fundraiser for the Special Olympics.

Senators Mike Bennett’ 10 and Nazar Kamenchenko’ 10 explained their proposition to Dean Pellegrino concerning renovations to the lower level weight training room in the Rec Plex.

“We have discussed the issue with Phil Palumbo[Director of Recreation], as well as other top administrators,” said Bennett. “The main issue is the budget; we’re working to get more money allotted to the complex.”

After the presentation, three resolutions concerning the Presidential Ball budget, the concert budget and the FUSA budget were discussed and passed. All votes were unanimous except the Presidential Ball budget, which was opposed only by Bennett.

FUSA allotted $75,000 to the concert and $10,000 of their total $263,500 yearly budget. Crowley noted that von Arx donates $50,000 to the Presidential Ball budget, and that FUSA might not even have to put any money into it.