Gayle Hutchinson announced a student vote could affect proposed fee increases in an email to the campus Monday.

The president announced she will extend the option of a referendum, an advising vote on the proposed measure to increase fees, to the student body. This means that students may now vote to suggest an adjustment to these proposed increases.

The proposal has been discussed in detail at open forums on campus. According to the email to the campus body, Hutchinson stated, “I was truly encouraged at the large number of students who turned out and participated in the evening forum…That day proved to be rich with meaningful exchanges between students, faculty, staff and administrators.”

“One student’s words continued to play over in my mind, ‘How will I know that my voice counted?'” Hutchinson said.

This vote will take place in late April. Hutchinson stated that the vote’s results shall be taken into consideration prior to a final decision.

Open forums will continue to gather student input on this decision.

• Tuesday, March 6, 2 p.m., BMU 203
• Wednesday, March 7, 9 a.m., Colusa 100A
• More to be announced

Hutchinson encouraged students to become informed and involved by learning about the proposed fee adjustments, submit an opinion online and attend an open forum.

“While the decision to modify campus-based fees is ultimately made by the president, I want the process to be transparent and inclusive so I can take your voices into account when I make any and all decisions,” Hutchinson said.

Natalie Hanson can be reached at [email protected] or @NatalieH_Orion on Twitter.