University of Virginia Library

Saunier Implores Every Student
To Vote On Education Bond Bill

By Rod MacDonald
Cavalier Daily Staff Writer

"It is absolutely crucial that
University students who can vote
register before the October 5
deadline, so they can vote for the
state educational bond issue in
November," said Paul J. Saunier
yesterday.

Mr. Saunier, director of
University relations, told The
Cavalier Daily yesterday that "The
outcome of the state bond issue
vote on November 5 will materially
affect all Virginia students at the
University. They will have more to
gain, and more to lose, than any
other segment of the University
community."

Mr. Saunier went on, "If the
University gets the funds now
specified in the bond issue, every
student here will benefit. Some of
the planned facilities would be
completed and in use even before
present second-year students have
been graduated.

"News that we will be able
to expand and improve our
facilities on schedule will be an
immediate aid in recruiting
excellent faculty members, and in
improving the University's rising
competitive position in national
higher education.

"Without the funds," he added,
"That position will be hurt for
some years and as alumni our
present students will then be hurt
as they begin their careers over the
nation."

The bond issue would release
$11.9 million in state funds to be
used for construction and other
projects at the University. It is
sated on the November 5 ballot.

"Of the 18 educational
institutions covered by the issue,
the University is the only one that
includes a law school, both
undergraduate and graduate
schools, a medical school and a
hospital. The enabling legislation
therefore lists $11.9 million for 14
construction projects for the
University and the University
Hospital, somewhat more than is
specified for smaller or less complex
institutions," said Mr. Saunier.

The $11.9 million is not the
only importance for the University,
however. "It is less than half of
what the bond issue can release for
construction here. More than $14
million in other funds, at no cost or
obligation to Virginia taxpayers,
would become available if the bond
issue is approved.

"About $4 million in Federal
grants or private gifts already has
been allocated for construction as
"Matching" or "assistance" funds,
for specific buildings partially
financed by the bond issue.

"Dormitories, dining halls, and
related buildings worth $10 million
can be self-financed (by revenue
bonds based on rents and use
charges, etc.) if the academic
buildings in the bond issue can be
constructed. The additional $14
million cannot be used, of course, if
the needed academic facilities
cannot be built," he said.

Both the Rector and the Board
of Visitors have resolved to support
the state bond issue, and President
Shannon and leading alumni are
working through out the state for
its passage.

Mr. Saunier noted that "I hope
that every Virginia student of
voting age will act immediately to
get an absentee ballot and to vote,
and that those just reaching 21 will
register at their home precincts
before October 5 so they can get
absentee ballots in time."'

State voting requirements are
that you may vote in this state if:

1) You are a U.S. citizen, aged
21 by general election;

2) You have lived in Virginia
one year by general election day, in
your county or city six months, in
your ward or precinct thirty days;

3) You are registered. You
should register in your home city or
county. You must apply in person
to the registrar in your home
district and fill out a form
containing the following
information: name, age, date and
place of birth, residence and
occupation at the time and one
year ago, whether you have voted
before, and if so, the state, precinct
and county in which you voted last.
You do not have to declare a party
affiliation.

Mr. Saunier concluded "The
University has the highest average
age of any student body in the
state. Our students can vote, and it
is necessary for their own welfare
that they do in this instance. This
isn't just an administrative affair
we're all in this together."

The $11.9 part of the issue is
tied to a larger one for the whole
State educational system of $67.2
million. The issue is designed
primarily for the classrooms and
laboratories in the state's colleges
and universities. Another part,
$13.8 million, is for mental
hospitals, where it is considered by
their administrators a small
investment compared to the returns
it will bring the state both in the
productivity of mentally ill citizens
returned to normal life, and in the
knowledge those who are incurable
are at least receiving decent
treatment." The total issue of $81
million will be decided on the
ballot.

Paul J. Saunier

University Relations Director