Board members get first-hand look at RFoC, preparing to vote on renovation proposal at future meeting
A detachment of suited professionals lingered among the usual rush of hungry students craving a quick breakfast at Real Food on Campus.
The Central Michigan University Board of Trustees paid a visit to Carey Hall’s RFoC residential restaurant Thursday morning to evaluate its amenities.
The site trip to the Towers will help members decide if they want to approve a proposal to renovate the facility at a future date.
“That was an education process, to say 'What is the status today?' ... so that we can make an (educated) decision,” board chairwoman Sarah Opperman said. "There's something about walking through it, seeing it, talking to the people there that helps."
Central Michigan Life first reported on the proposal to funnel $850,000 into the potential project Dec. 1, 2010 based on the board's Dec. 3, 2010 agenda. However, the proposal inadvertently made its way into the packet.
University President George Ross said the Dec. 3 agenda was sent before it was finalized and the proposal was removed. The board was not ready at that time to make a substantive decision.
“We apologize for that,” Ross said.
Opperman said the proposal may be presented to the board to approve the project at a future meeting, but that would be up to administrative officials. She said it must be balanced with other needs.
The proposal
The original proposal requested the board to authorize “the planning, design, construction and equipping” of the first phase of the renovation project.
The Phase I renovation would include new seating and architectural elements. According to the proposal, it would create eight seating areas which will provide “multiple dining experiences.”
The project also will include a new front entrance, energy-efficient lighting enhancements, technology improvements and new signage, graphics and color palette.
The proposal states sustainability initiatives will be considered in all areas affected by the renovation.
If approved, the project will be funded by the auxiliary maintenance, renovation and replacement fund.
Shaun Holtgreive, associate director of Residence Life, told CM Life in December the new facility will allow Residence Life to provide Towers residents a better living experience at CMU.
Ron Souva, food service director of RFoC, could not be reached for comment prior to print.
The board also discussed Thursday whether east campus' Fresh Food Co. residential restaurant also might be renovated.
News Copy Chief Brad Canze contributed to this report
