The University Village made some changes to their rent policy and renovated dormitories this year.
Ronald Dupree, the University Village general manager, said, “One renovation that occurred was the repainting of the exterior of Phase I. We plan on repainting Phase II during the Christmas break, if not during the break, then during the summer will be our best option. We’ve been working on it for a couple of years.”
Harris D. Brown, a senior architecture major, said, “It’s good that they tried to improve the look of University Village, but I wish they would finish Phase II.”
Students often have issues with the price of housing and how the rent increases each year, but Dupree said a lot of factors are considered in deciding rent. “The cost of business goes up. Vendors now have a gas surcharge, and salaries increase. The increase is just a reflection of the cost of doing business.”
On the other side, a recurring problem the Village has with its residents is when people who live in the Village are not enrolled in classes or don’t have a room of their own. Dupree said “We rely entirely on information from the rooms and inspections. Having extra roommates is not permissible.” Rooms are leased on a first come first served basis, often leaving students relying on financial aid without housing.
Nathaniel Harris, a junior health major said, “I see they’re trying to make some changes. When they finish painting Phase II, it’ll look better. The outside was a good start, but the inside needs more attention.”