Letters

Office remodel a bad choice? ASPSU says no

Allocating funds for office equipment, supplies and attire is a normal course of action for every new student government. Our misfortune was that we could not inherit much and needed to start anew. Soiled couches and broken or missing equipment added to the necessity of our spending. Since our office is a place to connect students, faculty and administration, an attractive, clean environment that is accessible and comfortable to everyone is imperative. The previous arrangement did not fulfill this basic need.

It should be emphasized that the money spent wasn’t solely on a renovated office as it was construed to be. Included in our expenses were things essential for our operations. The purchasing of equipment for the execution of goals and to improve the efficiency of the general workflow is a warranted means and end. Furthermore, these expenses aren’t just for the current administration’s use, but an investment for years to come.

Thus, none of our expenses were excessive, superficial or unnecessary. We are highly aware of our budget, prioritize our spending and value frugality. We also believe that our expenses were fair and just.

We understand that student government’s image has been in jeopardy. We also realize that there will be skepticism with this current administration because we have not yet been able to execute our plans or exhibit our collective character. Accordingly, we respect and understand each student’s concerns.

We look forward to working hard and earning each student’s respect and trust. It is indeed too premature to judge the integrity of the new ASPSU administration. But in due time, we are confident that our actions, dedication and goodwill will gain us a positive image–something money can’t buy.

We encourage the PSU community to talk to us directly about their concerns. Open communication will help us better serve the student body.

Terra Bliss, ASPSU Communications Director

Soto’s spending

I believe establishing a positive (and cleaner) image is necessary and Soto made a good decision [“Rudy Soto’s first move? An $8,000 office remodel,” July 3], though a little misguided. I understand by creating a more organized and vibrant work environment, the student government would become more efficient, boost worker morale and possibly achieve these “goals” the previous posters have asserted. Case in point: Google offices. Although, I must admit spending over $2,500 on a couch and branded clothing seems a little superfluous. I would like to have seen money spend on work materials that would increase worker productivity and document organization, rather than clothing, which is rather unnecessary in the scheme of things.

Anonymous

Baseball lacks support

Judging from the nonexistent school spirit and meager fan base Portland State has for its current sports teams, I would understand why any proposal for a PSU baseball team [“Raising Hell-It’s time to bring baseball back to the Park Blocks,” July 3] would be shot down.

Anonymous

Parking structure scandal

I was just wondering if you would do a story about the PSU parking enforcers. I have heard that this year a lot of stuff has happened regarding them, such as: 1) tickets are up ten fold, 2) more people are getting caught while engaging in inappropriate activity and 3) violent attacks against enforcers has increased. I know that a lot of people don’t like them, yet I think that it would be interesting. There’s sex, violence and hate.

Lewis Simms