Student rep fee fails for third time

The student representation fee initiative failed for the third consecutive time in the Associated Students of Citrus College elections last week on May 25 and 26. It received 123 yes votes and 89 no votes, but failed because it did not receive the two-thirds super majority required to pass.

Chrissy Concannon, who ran unopposed, was elected ASCC president with 164 of 233 votes cast in her favor.

Concannon, 19, of Glendora, said student government officers are planning to bring the student rep fee back as a ballot measure next year, but are still deciding whether to do it during the fall or spring election.

As newly elected president, Concannon said improving communication between the ASCC and students is important.

“By informing them about what’s going on, we can better help them,” she said.
Voter turnout improved marginally with 14 more votes cast than in the spring 2009 election.

In the running for Legislative liaison were Cherry Villanueva, Chris Saenz and Dustin Call. Villanueva took the position with 79 votes in her favor, defeating her opponents by 27 and 23 votes, respectively.

“I think it’s sad the rep fee failed again,” Call said. “Especially after I found out that [the ASCC] travel budget was $7,000 in the hole.”

Students didn’t understand the fee and that is why it didn’t pass, Call said.

“Money could solve problems if the ASCC uses it properly,” Call said.

 Incumbent Senator Erick Sanzon was in support of the rep fee.

“We don’t have a clear idea if the next governor will support education,” he said. Funds from the rep fee would have been a financial assurance, Sanzon said.

It was a competitive race for senator this year. Ten individuals ran for the position with only seven spots available.

Canidates Yu Hou and Mathew Serna received the most votes with 99 and 93, respectively, followed by Alejandra Gutierrez (86), Patricia Gonzalez (83), and Erick Sanzon (80).

Also elected to the position of senator was Miguel Huerta with 77 votes and Thania Lucero with 74.