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ASUA denies Camp Wildcat's request for additional funding

Camp Wildcat - a 150-member organization designed to serve underprivileged Tucson children - was denied extended funding for counselor training at last night's ASUA Senate meeting.

Representatives from the organization said the Appropriations Board made a mistake in its initial amount of funding.

"I think it was unfair that they were not willing to change the decision of the Appropriations Board," said Justin Price, chairman of Camp Wildcat, after the meeting. "I think it was their ego that got in the way of the right decision."

Price said he believed the Associated Students Senate, which met last night in Memorial Student Union room 256, was not willing to overturn the decision because it would involve contradicting the initial decision of the Board.

Organizers of the club, who were granted $330.80 from the Appropriations Board, felt that the amount was not nearly enough to properly cover the cost of the event.

"It seems like an unfair amount to me," Price said, as he asked the ASUA Senate for additional funds - about $800 - that would help offset student payments.

Price said counselors will have to pay $13 for transportation to the camp site. This amount would drop to $7 if the club was granted the extra money.

Price said he felt the Appropriations Board misunderstood his club's request and its status. According to state law, universities are not allowed to grant money to philanthropic organizations.

While Camp Wildcat falls under this distinction, the event in question is considered a club training session, not a philanthropy program.

Price said he believed the Appropriations Board denied his organization additional funding because of its philanthropic status.

However, Senate members did not agree with the claim.

"It was perfectly clear that this was not a philanthropic event," said Sen. Shane Brogan. "I have faith in our Appropriations Board, and I don't think this needs to be sent back."

Sen. Julie Burkhart cited ASUA bylaws, which stated that appeals are granted only if due process was violated by the Appropriations Board, or if the issue deals with ambiguity in the bylaws or issues of legality.

The organization raises $13,000 and performs 20,000 hours of service every year.