Proposed residence hall rate increases were among the major topics of discussion during the state Board of Regents meeting Wednesday and Thursday in Cedar Falls.

The board gave a report on proposed residence hall rate increases at the regent institutions. According to the report, Iowa State’s room and board rate for a double occupancy room with a 20-meal plan would increase from $4,432 to $4,666 for the 2001-2002 school year, a 5.3 percent increase.

Thomas Hill, ISU vice president for Student Affairs, said when determining rates, the university is aiming for a 1 percent differential between revenues and expenditures, and the increase is needed to finance the renovations of the residence halls. This increase is 0.3 percent higher than the increase Iowa State proposed to the regents in December because of unanticipated costs.

Regent David Neil showed some concern over the 0.3 percent increase from the original proposal, adding the costs should have been anticipated earlier.

“When we make decisions, we think we have the most accurate information at the time,” he said. “Apparently, that’s not the case.”

ISU Director of Residence Randy Alexander said the originally-proposed 5 percent increase was according to the most accurate information available in October, when the information was prepared.

“There were additional costs that, at that time, we were not aware of,” he said.

The rates are still reasonable, being one of the least expensive in the Big 12 and land grant universities, Hill said. He said though a smaller increase might have been possible, the university does not want to have a steep rate increase in the future.

“The room and board rates we are proposing for next year will remain one of the lowest rates in the country,” Hill said. “I think it’s clear that the Iowa State University Department of Residence will continue to be an excellent value.”

The regents will vote on the new increase at their meeting next month.

Hill also talked about the progress of the Department of Residence’s master plan. He said the Maple Hall and Hawthorn Court projects are going well.

“It is my pleasure to report that there is significant evidence that we have taken the right approach,” he said.

Regents Executive Director Frank Stork also gave an update on the educational bills in the Iowa Legislature. He said the regents will be working with the Legislature over the proposed budget cuts for the universities.

“That, of course, will all unfold within the next few weeks,” he said.

Regents President Owen Newlin said he expects the universities will continue to work with the Board of Regents over the cuts. “We expect more intense discussion than maybe in the past,” he said.

ISU Interim President Richard Seagrave also introduced Government of the Student Body President-elect Andy Tofilon and Vice President-elect Charlie Johnson at the meeting.

“With the appropriations cuts – we are here to help you with whatever you need,” Tofilon said. “We hope to have a very positive relationship with the Board of Regents.”