Former Government of the Student Body President Sophia Magill is receiving criticism and praise for her decision not to sign a bill giving $500 to the city of Ames.

Days before her term ended Magill decided not to support a bill assisting the city with costs incurred from the citywide special election held earlier this month.

Even without Magill’s signature, the terms of the bill will be fulfilled.

“At the time, I didn’t feel that there was a complete consensus on the issue, and I was unsure of the actual reaction that was going to be had [by the bill being passed],” Magill said. “I do believe in the ‘one community’ concept and that we have to work more closely with Ames city officials, but I don’t think that this bill had ISU students’ best interests in mind.”

William Rock, former GSB vice-president, signed the bill March 28, leaving Magill only six days to do the same. When this time period lapsed, the bill automatically passed without her signature April 3.

Ryan Doll, former Towers Residence Association senator, voted in favor of the bill and canvassed to get support for term changes.

“Regardless of her signature, it passed — that’s all that matters to me,” Doll said.

Kristi Kramer, GSB finance director, said she was surprised by Magill’s decisions.

“It was fully supported by the GSB Finance Committee and it passed in senate by two-thirds vote. It was very disappointing that [President Magill] did not sign it,” Kramer said.

Yet, there are a few senators who say they support Magill’s reasons.

“Although voting to approve the bill, I support President Magill’s decision not to sign the bill,” said Dan Determan, former College of Family and Consumer Sciences senator.

“The decisions she makes are always well thought through and made with the students’ best interests in mind.”

Magill said she did not feel the $500 payment to the city of Ames was the best use of student fee payments, and felt as though students already paid for the various election expenses through their tax dollars. Using their tuition money for the same cause was like a “double payment,” she said.

Although the Ames City Council never requested payment from GSB to help fund the special election, members of Ames City Council said the initiative to help pay for the costs of the special election was a good idea.

“In the spirit of cooperation … I think the payment was a nice gesture on GSB’s part, although there was absolutely no expectations for that to occur,” said City Councilman Russ Cross.