The Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents approved
a 5-percent increase in room and board rates for residence
halls, with the exception of Wise Hall, at its regular
meeting June 19.
The average cost increase for the academic year will amount
to $332 and is effective fall 2007.
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BEST BUY: Eastern Michigan University
students
will have to pay an additional 5 percent
this fall to
live in one of EMU's 13 residence
halls, including
Best Hall (pictured). One residence
hall, Wise Hall,
actually will have its rates decreased
by 2.6
percent for 2007-2008. |
The standard 18-meal, double occupancy room will increase
from $6,610 to $6,942. Single occupancy room
and board rates will be $8,446.
Apartment rates will remain at the 2006-07 rate and Wise
Hall's rates will be decreased by 2.6 percent. This will
balance the need for revenue to sustain the housing program
this year with the need to offer competitive and affordable
housing options given the current economic climate in the
geographic area.
The 2.6-percent decrease in the Wise Hall rate will offer
a rate that is $504 lower than other EMU residence halls,
at $6,438 for a double occupancy. This will be the least
expensive residence hall in EMU's marketable area and is
designed to increase Wise's occupancy rate while providing
a lower cost option.
The rate increase will help housing and dining services
meet its budgeted occupancy goals; meet debt payment obligations;
fund basic facilities needs; maintain current levels of
service; and maintain a reserve fund balance of at least
$1 million.
The average room and board rate increase among state institutions
that have already been recommended or approved their numbers
is 5.02 percent, with increases ranging from 1.8 percent
to 10.45 percent. Michigan State University has the highest
approved increase at 10.45 percent, while Wayne State University
raised its rate by 1.83 percent.
Of the 13 universities reporting, EMU's annual total cost
for housing and dining ($6,942) for 2007-08 ranks ninth
and is below the state average of $7,118.
EMU currently has 13 residence halls and three apartment
complexes. Nearly 3,000 students are expected in University
residence halls and apartments for the 2007-08 academic
year, including an estimated 1,700 first-time students.
