Place Riel budget

The cost of the Place Riel construction project is over budget but under its total funding.

The project’s steering committee outlined that the project’s total cost is so far $32,472.76 over its $21.1 million budget. They also proposed a $151,829.07 contingency, which arises out of potential changes not included in the current budget. For instance, project planners have not decided whether they should prioritize the concrete leading up to the entrance and hire a contractor during the winter — which might be more expensive — or if they should wait for spring.

Regardless of the contingency, the project is still below its total funding of $21.59 million.

$18.3 million of that funding is on loan from the First Nations Bank of Canada and the Toronto Dominion, while the remainder is from the university and from accumulated savings of the 2004-2009 USSU infrastructure fees.

The infrastructure fee is currently $50.50 per term for full-time undergraduate students. It saw its largest increase from 2006-07 to 2007-08 when it jumped from $10.00 to $44.00.

Click here for the Place Riel construction budget.

Arts and Science improving advising

Associate Dean of Arts and Science Gordon DesBrisay talked to council about initiatives the college has taken to improve student advising.

First, the college is taking online applications for the newly established and permanent position of Director of Student Advising.

Second, by June 30, 2011, a software program called DegreeWorks will be available to all students in the college and hopefully even prospective students. The programs main benefit is counting credits, which will make it easier for students to figure out specific degree requirements on their own.

DesBrisay hopes that these two initiatives will allow for more accessible and personal advising, and will cut the amount of time spent counting credits with advisors.