So. A couple of different readers — at least one of whom was pretty dang incredulous — have told us about a recent mailer that’s been circulating in University Park.
It’s from the City of University Park College Scholarship Committee (which I admit I’d never heard until exactly one second after I saw said mailer), and here are some nuggets:
In 2009 the City received a donation to the University Park Civic Foundation to award college scholarships to the children of City employees. As higher education costs continue to climb, this donation has been critical in helping these students pursue their degree paths. To date, the effort has averaged 15 scholarships during the fall and spring semesters, but the program will be exhausted soon without new funding.
According to the letter, a 2011 survey — which drew responses from around 1,000 people — suggests residents are in favor of adding “a voluntary 50-cent donation to each [UP household’s] utility bill each month.”
On the other hand:
… while we believe most residents will support this donation, which at minimal cost to each of us will collectively provide what is needed, there will be those who prefer not to participate.
Neighborhood Spotlight
Park Cities
Where the Park Cities Stay Connected.
On Sept. 4, the scholarship committee will ask the City Council to automatically add that $.50 to your bill. So if their request passes and you want to opt out, you’ll have to call the city’s billing department.
Questions and comments about the scholarship program are being directed to the City Council, at [email protected]. If you’re a resident, you’re also invited to serve on a committee (a sub-committee?) that will name scholars according to “financial need, academic record, and leadership potential.”
Author
