WMU News

Increased operating costs prompt room and board rate changes

April 21, 2000

KALAMAZOO -- Increases in operating costs have prompted a corresponding rise in room and board and apartment rental rates for 2000-2001 at Western Michigan University.

The increase, approved April 20 by the WMU Board of Trustees, will average 5 percent for both room and board and apartment rental rates. WMU operates 22 residence halls, six full-service dining facilities, five cash dining facilities and three apartment complexes.

"The new rates will allow us to absorb expected increases in our operating costs, including compensation, utilities, food and maintenance," says Robert M. Beam, vice president for business and finance. The increases also reflect the cost of renovating and updating the University's dining facilities.

The cost to live and eat in a residence hall for the 2000-2001 academic year will be $4,557 for 10 meals per week, a difference of $217 from the current rates. Fifteen- and 20-meal plans will cost $238 and $242 more per year, respectively, than the comparable plans are priced this year. Apartment rental rates will range from $434 per month for a one-bedroom, unfurnished apartment in Goldsworth Valley to $692 for a two-bedroom, furnished unit in the Elmwood Apartments.

WMU has a residence hall capacity of 6,100 students, and officials expect to begin the academic year with full occupancy. The 585 on-campus student apartments for student families, graduate students and non-traditional students operate throughout the year at 95 to 99 percent capacity.

Media contact: Jessica English, 616 387-8400, jessica.english@wmich.edu


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