2011-2012 Living Guide

Letter from the Director

Hello and welcome to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and to University Housing! You have now
joined over 3500 students who live on our campus and call it home. The unique living experience
offered by University Housing provides a community environment which offers support in the areas of
academic performance, social maturity, community connections, and self-understanding. You will
quickly realize that there is more to living on campus than having a place to study and sleep. As a
member of the University Housing community, you will have the opportunity to become involved in a
variety of activities that will supplement your classroom experience.

This document provides you with information that will help you adjust to campus life. For questions you
may have that are not answered here, please contact your Resident Assistant, Assistant Community
Director, or Community Director. You can also access the University Housing website at
www.siue.edu/housing. We want to do all that we can to ensure that life in University Housing will be a
rewarding and invaluable experience.

Sincerely,

Michael Schultz
Director of University Housing

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Table of Contents
General Information………………………………….Page 3

 Contract Information and Addresses

 Change of Address
 Staff Listing
 Housing Student Organizations

Room and Contract Information………………..Page 8

 General Conditions of the Housing Contract

 Space Change Policy
 Break Periods
 Checking In/Checking Out
 Condition Reports
 Insurance
 Vacancy Consolidation
 Information Release Policy

Safety and Security……………………………………Page 15

 Emergencies
 Keys
 Safety Inspections
 Security
 Stolen/Illegal Items
 Natural Gas Safety
 Pest Control

Standards for Student Conduct…………………Page 24

 Student Conduct Process

 Prohibited Items
 Alcohol Policy
 Controlled Substances
 Damages, Vandalism, Group Billing
 Noise Policy
 Pet Policy
 Cleaning Guidelines
 Occupancy Policy
 Guest Policy

Community Standards…………………………..…Page 38

 Resident Rights and Responsibilities

 Bicycles
 Bus Service Cable
 Child Behavior Guidelines
 Cleaning
 Community Property
 Commons Building
 Roommate/Community Agreement
 Decorating and Painting
 Front Desks
 Community/Facility Information

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General Information
Mission Statement
University Housing is dedicated to fostering a quality living and learning environment.

Vision Statement
University Housing seeks to be a progressive organization that creates an engaging living and learning
environment and will be recognized for providing quality customer services.

Statement of Values
In addition to the shared values of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, University Housing values
the following:

 Engaging students in active learning;

 Helping students develop coherent values, ethical standards, and social awareness;
 Setting high expectations for students and staff;
 Using systematic inquiry to improve student and departmental performance;
 Providing leadership and efficient use of resources to help achieve the institution’s mission and
goals;
 Establishing educational partnerships; and
 Building supportive and inclusive living and learning communities.

Statement on Diversity
University Housing is committed to engaging students in educational experiences in an open, civil, and
respectful climate that will prepare them for global citizenship and lifelong learning.

Educational Priority
University Housing fosters an environment that promotes opportunities for students to become
civically, socially, and academically responsible individuals who are engaged members of their current
and future communities.

Learning Outcomes
As a result of living in University Housing, each student will understand…

Civility
To be a successful member of the SIUE community, students need the help of a network of caring
people. In order to gain and keep social support students need social skills. Civility expounds the
essential skills that allow us to live well among others (Forni, 2003).

Sustainability
Sustainability is the ability to provide for the needs of the current generation without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet their needs (World Commission on Environment and Development,
1987). University Housing embraces the triple bottom line of sustainability: healthy environments social
justice, and strong economies.

Academic Achievement
Students who thrive academically strive to embrace the 4-3-2-1 formula for success: graduate in four (4)

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years; maintain at least a 3.0 (3) grade point average; spend at least two (2) hours of prep time for every
credit hour enrolled; and engage in one (1) campus or civic activity.

Interpersonal and intrapersonal competence

Realistic self-appraisal and self-understanding; personal attributes such as identity, strengths, values;
interdependence; meaningful relationships (Learning Reconsidered, 2004).

University Housing Contact Information and Addresses

Central Housing Office

Campus Box 1056
Edwardsville, IL 62026
618-655-3931
housing@siue.edu

University Housing Facilities Management

Campus Box 1257
Edwardsville, IL 62026
618-650-2070
618-650-3626 (To submit Maintenance Request)

Students who live in residence halls will be assigned a mailbox and issued a mail key at check-in.
Mailboxes in Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls are located on the first floor near the main stairwell.
Mailboxes for Evergreen Hall are located on the entry level (2nd floor).

Mailboxes for residents of Cougar Village are located on the lower level of the Commons Building. The
mailboxes are numbered by apartment number and are opened with your apartment key.

Woodland Hall
1 Residence Drive
Woodland Hall Stop #
Edwardsville, IL 62025
618-650-4255

Prairie Hall
2 Prairie Drive
Prairie Hall Stop #
Edwardsville, IL 62025
618-650-4252

Bluff Hall
60 Circle Drive
Bluff Hall Stop #
Edwardsville, IL 62025
618-650-4253
Evergreen Hall
74 Circle Drive

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Evergreen Hall Stop #
Edwardsville, IL 62025
618-650-4254

Cougar Village
Building # Cougar Village, Apt. #
Edwardsville, IL 62025
618-650-2900

Change of Address

When you check out of University Housing or change spaces, you must change your address. (Note:
Persons who space change within their own residence hall do not have to fill out a Change of Address.)
All residents must also complete an SIUE Change of Address. Billing and local addresses may be updated
via CougarNet between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students should also
complete a change of address form with the United States Postal Service at www.usps.com. Forms can
be submitted online or printed and returned to a U.S. Post Office or the Front Desk of your residence
hall/Cougar Village Commons.

University Housing Facilities Management (UHFM)

University Housing Facilities Management (UHFM) is the department assigned to the development and
maintenance of facilities and grounds of University Housing. UHFM repairs University Housing property
within units, cares for the grounds surrounding University Housing facilities, performs snow removal,
maintains the cleanliness of common areas and offices in University Housing buildings, oversees pest
control, develops and upgrades facilities within University Housing, and much more. Hours of operation
are 7:00am - 3:30pm, Monday - Friday. You may submit a Maintenance Request anytime via
www.siue.edu/housing. If an emergency exists, contact UHFM at x3626 during business hours or you
may contact the University Police at x3324 after hours.

University Housing Staff

Director of University Housing (Michael Schultz) is responsible for the management, supervision, and
operation of University Housing including fiscal, operations, services, and maintenance functions. He is
the person directly responsible for monitoring and implementing the policies and procedures of
University Housing. The Director of University Housing is the supervisor of the Associate Directors of
University Housing, Residence Life, and University Housing Facilities Management. Contact Mike at SIUE
Campus Box 1254, Edwardsville, IL 62026, (618) 650-4628, or e-mail mschult@siue.edu.

Associate Director of University Housing (Scott Gluntz) assists the Director of University Housing in the
management and operation of University Housing. He supervises the Central Housing Office staff and
the Marketing Specialist. He is directly responsible for the management of the resident application and
space reservation processes, monitoring the collections/accounts receivable system, and the
enforcement of the terms and conditions of the housing contract. Contact Scott at SIUE Campus Box
1056, Edwardsville, IL 62026, (618) 650-3931, or e-mail sgluntz@siue.edu.

Associate Director of University Housing Facilities Management (Bob Legate) is responsible for the
supervision of the University Housing Facilities Management staff, initiation of policies and procedures

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for the maintenance/cleaning of the facilities and grounds of University Housing, and the development
of a preventive maintenance and long-term capital improvement program. Contact Bob at SIUE Campus
Box 1257, Edwardsville, IL 62026, (618) 650-2070, or e-mail rlegate@siue.edu.

Associate Director of Residence Life (Kathleen Gardner) has full responsibility for developing and
implementing the vision and direction of the residence life program and serves as an integral part of the
central management team for University Housing. The Associate Director’s primary responsibility is
ensuring effective daily operations of Cougar Village Apartments and Evergreen, Woodland, Prairie and
Bluff Halls. The Associate Director is responsible for budget management; supervision of Residence Life
staff; and ensuring the development of a community that fosters intellectual growth and development
for 3,500 residents. Contact Kathleen at SIUE Campus Box 1254, Edwardsville, IL 62026, (618) 650-4628
or e-mail kagardn@siue.edu.

Assistant Director of Residence Life (Amanda Stonecipher and Sarah Kirkpatrick) is a full-time staff
member responsible for administering a residential area of four residence halls (Amanda Stonecipher) or
Cougar Village Apartments (Sarah Kirkpatrick). The position includes educational, supervisory, and
administrative functions to provide an environment reflective of the University’s mission and values and
the department’s learning objectives. The Assistant Director of Residence Life supervises 2-4 master’s
level Community Directors and indirectly supervises 2-4 Graduate Assistants and 30-44 Resident
Assistants. Contact Amanda at SIUE, Campus Box 1253, Edwardsville, IL 62026, (618) 650-4627, or e-
mail astonec@siue.edu and Sarah at SIUE, Campus Box 1256, Edwardsville, IL 62026, (618) 650-2964, or
e-mail skirkpa@siue.edu.

Assistant Director of Residence Life for Training & Development (Kyle Rice) coordinates the planning,
implementation, and evaluation of all training and development programs within University Housing’s
residential life program. This includes training and development of the Community Directors, Assistant
Community Directors, and student staff. The Assistant Director is also responsible for cultivating student
leadership by advising the Residence Housing Association and supporting the Community Directors in
their roles as Area Council Advisors. Contact Kyle at SIUE, Campus Box 1258, Edwardsville, IL 62026,
(618) 650-4629, or e-mail klineba@siue.edu.

Assistant Director of Residence Life for Residential Education (Vicky Dean) is responsible for developing
and implementing living and learning programs in residence halls and apartments that support the
academic mission of the University. This position oversees all academic initiatives for the department
and provides direction for both the curricular and co-curricular aspects of all residentially-based
communities. Working with faculty and academic staff to create a seamless living and learning
environment is another of her responsibilities. Contact Vicky at Campus Box 1255, Edwardsville, IL
62026, (618) 650-5296, or email vdean@siue.edu.

Marketing Specialist (Mallory Sidarous) is responsible for University Housing publications, promotional
activities, public relations, UHTV-21, and web site content. This position assists in recruitment of new
students as well as represents University Housing at numerous events. Contact Mallory at SIUE Campus
Box 1056, Edwardsville, IL 62026, (618) 650-0546, or e-mail msidaro@siue.edu.

Community Director (CD) is a full-time, master’s level, live-in professional staff member responsible for
the daily operations of a 500-bed residence hall or a portion of Cougar Village. The Community Director
directly supervises one Graduate Assistant (Assistant Community Director) and 11-16 undergraduate

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Resident Assistants (RAs). The Community Director is charged with creating an atmosphere that
promotes academic success, personal development, respect for diversity, and a strong sense of
community.

Assistant Community Director (ACD) is a graduate student responsible for assisting the Community
Director with management of a residential area. Responsibilities include: supervision of a Desk
Manager, Commons Manager, or Family Resource Center staff; providing counseling and referral for
residents; conducting disciplinary counseling, sanctioning and referral for residents; and contributing to
all community development efforts.

Housing Student Organizations

Residence Housing Association (RHA) is the voice and representation of residential students at SIUE.
Representing 3500 students, from all 5 residential areas, RHA remains dedicated to improving on-
campus living and objectively providing a voice for the concerns of our residents. RHA also provides
services and events for residents. RHA enacts change through legislation and advocates the issues and
concerns of residents with the ultimate goal of making University Housing the best possible living
environment for students.

The National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) is a campus chapter that recognizes the top 1% of
student leaders that reside on campus. SIUE’s Red Storm chapter began in the spring of 2006 and has 35
members! NRHH is intended to give local, regional, and national recognition to students making
exceptional contributions to the residential areas on campus. Each NRHH member is recognized for their
contributions to the four NRHH pillars: Leadership, Scholarship, Recognition, and Service.

Each Housing community has an Area Council. The area council is a group of students who represent
the residents in their building, sponsor and execute building events, listen and respond to resident
concerns and more.

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Room and Contract Information
General Conditions of the Housing Contract

Single student housing contracts are issued for the nine month academic year (Fall and Spring
semesters) and Summer term. The family housing contract is issued for the 12 month period beginning
June 1. Therefore, once the student has signed the contract and paid the advance payment and deposit,
he/she is expected to honor this contract for the entire contract period.

By signing the housing contract, the single student agrees during the period of occupation to comply
with the rules and regulations of the University and of University Housing relative to preserving order on
the premises, use of the premises, protection of the University (State of Illinois) property, and
maintenance of student status.

The general rules and regulations of the University are printed in the “Student Conduct Code” document
and the University Housing Terms and Conditions. Students are also bound by the State of Illinois
statutes, which apply to students and the University, and all registration and contractual agreements
signed by the student (and the student’s parent or guardian, if applicable).

Enrollment

Fall and Spring

1. Undergraduate residents are expected to enroll for at least 9 credit hours per semester.
2. Graduate residents are expected to enroll for at least 6 credit hours per semester.

Summer

Enrollment in at least one course for summer term meets housing eligibility requirement. Continuing
residents who meet the minimum enrollment requirements during the preceding spring term, and are
enrolled for the following fall term with a valid housing contract, are not required to enroll for classes
during summer term to live on campus during the summer term.

Contract Cancellation - Single Students

Academic year approved contract cancellations will be considered only in accordance with the Single
Student Terms and Conditions in the following instances: academic suspension, active military
induction, counseling considerations, death in the immediate family, graduation, marriage, serious
illness, and withdrawal from the University.

Students submitting requests for cancellation are required to present documentation to substantiate
the cancellation request. In cases where residency is terminated, the resident remains financially
responsible for 50% of the remainder of the Housing contract period. Requests for contract cancellation
forms are available in the Central Housing Office, 0248 Rendleman Hall or online at
www.siue.edu/housing.

All contract payments are determined according to the date the written “Request for Contract

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Cancellation” is received in the Central Housing Office and are required as follows:

Prior to Fall Term Cancellations

a. Cancellations submitted in writing prior to or on May 1, before the start of the full contract, will
result in a refund of the advance payment.

b. Cancellations submitted in writing after May 1 and prior to or on August 1 will result in
forfeiture of advance payment and security deposit.

c. For cancellations submitted after August 1 and before the first day of the Fall contract, a written
request must be received. Contract cancellation will be considered for approval only in the
following instances: serious illness, graduation, death in the immediate family, academic
suspension, marriage, withdrawal from SIUE for the remainder of the contract period, active
military induction, or counseling considerations. If the cancellation is approved, the advance
payment and security deposit will be forfeited.

Fall Semester Cancellations

a. For approved cancellations from the first day of the contract period through December 1, the
resident must pay the room use fee prorated through the end of the week in addition to a $250
contract cancellation fee.

b. After the December 1 deadline and before the beginning of Spring Semester check-in, the
resident pays the entire Fall Semester housing room use fee in addition to a $300 contract
cancellation fee.

c. For approved cancellations for graduation received prior to or on December 1, the cancellation
fee is waived.

d. For approved cancellations due to academic suspension, the resident must pay the $75 deposit
and room use fee prorated through the end of the week of official check-out, if received within
two weeks of suspension notification. Otherwise, see above (a. - Fall Semester Cancellations).

e. The resident must properly vacate University Housing by the end of finals or when academic
eligibility ceases, whichever is earliest.

Spring Semester Cancellations

a. For approved cancellations from the first day of the contract period and through the last day of
the contract period, the resident must pay the room use fee prorated through the end of the
week, in addition to a $250 contract cancellation fee.

b. For approved cancellations due to academic suspension, the resident must pay the $75 deposit
and room use fee prorated through the end of the week of official check-out.

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Summer Term Cancellations

a. Cancellation will be considered only if submitted in writing prior to the beginning of the contract
period.

b. For approved cancellations due to academic suspension, the resident must pay the $75 deposit
and room use fee prorated through the end of the week of official check-out, if received within
two weeks of suspension notification. Otherwise, the student is responsible for the full
contract.

Contract Cancellation - Family Students

Family residents may cancel their contract provided that the Central Housing Office is advised in writing
on the “Request for Cancellation of Contract” form at least thirty (30) days in advance of vacating.
Payments will be made for the 30-day period following receipt of the cancellation form or to the
indicated date of cancellation, whichever is longer. If a cancellation form is not received by the Central
Housing Office, the 30-day period will begin the date the resident is discovered to have vacated.
“Request for Contract Cancellation” forms are available in the Central Housing Office, 0224 Rendleman
Hall, and online at www.siue.edu/housing.

Late Payment

For single students and families on the Installment Payment Plan, a service charge will be assessed if
payment is not made according to the plan’s guidelines. Late payments that result in registration
cancellations do not cancel the student’s housing contract liability.

Space Change Policy

Roommate conflict can be difficult and uncomfortable to deal with. However, there are benefits to
experiencing conflict; these types of situations provide us with opportunities to strengthen our
communication skills, better understand our values, and learn to compromise and negotiate…all of
these are necessary “real world” skills.

Space changes are a last resort in dealing with roommate conflict. Except in emergency situations,
space changes may take place beginning the third week of the semester (after two full weeks of classes).
This gives University Housing time to assign students that need assignments, process cancelations, and
identify open spaces. Space changes are typically not granted during the summer due to our facilities
maintenance schedule. University Housing has very few open spaces during the academic year so the
opportunity for space changes is limited and not guaranteed.

How can I change my room if I do not get along my roommate?

If a space change request is made due to difficulties with current roommate(s), the student will first be
required to have a conversation with their roommate(s) and communicate their concerns and needs.
This conversation should take place in person (not via text or via social media) and in a manner that
seeks to resolve, not escalate the conflict.

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What if I am unable to resolve the conflict on my own?

If a student is unable to successfully address the conflict with their roommate, he or she should consult
with their Resident Assistant (RA). The RA will attempt to improve the living environment by mediating
the conflict and facilitating a written roommate agreement (Roommate Connections). Students should
not wait until the situation escalates; they should be proactive in appropriately addressing roommate
concerns when they arise.

What if consulting with my RA does not resolve the conflict?

If consulting with the RA does not adequately address the concerns, the next step is for the student to
consult with their Community Director (in the hall office or the Commons Building). The Community
Director will assist with mediating the conflict by scheduling a meeting with all roommates.

What if I have tried these steps and I am still unhappy with my roommate situation?

If residents have made good faith effort to address the conflict in a mature, respectful, civil manner, the
Community Director will allow a resident to fill out a Space Change Request Form. University Housing is
not able to grant all space change requests due to space availability. Priority goes to students living in
temporary assignments and then emergency situations (determined by Housing staff). Residents are
able to participate in an approved room swap if no open spaces are available.

Before a resident receives a list of available spaces, he or she will need to complete an online module.
The purpose of the module is to provide students with information about how live successfully with a
roommate.
After the resident completes the module, the Community Director will email the resident a list of open
spaces via to their SIUE email account. It is the student’s responsibility to meet with potential new
roommates before they pick a new space.

Residents will have three business days to pick a space from the list and to begin the space change
process (check out of old space, check into new space). If a resident does not identify a new space
within 3 business days their Space Change Request Form becomes null and void and they drop to the
bottom of the space change list.

What is a parent’s role with a roommate conflict?

We ask parents to understand that University Housing needs to work directly with the student(s) when
problems arise. It is a valuable growth opportunity for students to learn to successfully address conflicts
themselves. All students involved in the conflict must be part of the conversation to find a mutually
beneficial solution. University Housing staff members will not address an issue until all sides have been
heard. If your student needs assistance, encourage him or her to contact the RA first, and if necessary,
the Community Director.

Break Periods

In Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls, your contract covers the period when the University is in session.
These halls will be closed over the Thanksgiving break, semester break, and Spring break. Bluff, Prairie,

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and Woodland Halls will reopen at 10 a.m. on the Sunday following each break period.

Evergreen Hall and Cougar Village will remain open for all breaks with limited staffing and services
available.

When leaving for break periods, please remember to:

• Close and lock your windows.

• Lower your blinds.
• Empty your trash.
• Turn off all lights.
• Shut & lock your room/apartment door(s) and bathroom door (if applicable).

Checking Into University Housing

1. To check into University Housing, a student must have completed all required contracting
procedures at the Central Housing Office located in Rendleman Hall. This includes a paid
application and contract.

2. Students who are checking-in must report to the front desk or to the location indicated in
assignment instructions. Students will receive check-in instructions, their living unit
assignments, and keys.

3. A proper check-in will include, among other things, a completed and valid emergency contact
form.

4. A new resident orientation session designed to acquaint students with University Housing
procedures and policies will be held during the first two weeks of each semester.

Checking Out of University Housing

1. A Cancellation of Contract form must be completed (SEE: Contract Cancellation) prior to the end
of a term, if necessary.

2. Contact your Resident Assistant for a check-out appointment. Appointments must be made 24
hours in advance to avoid a $25.00 improper check-out charge. During Spring semester,
appointments must be made by Wednesday of the week prior to final exam week to avoid a
$25.00 improper check-out charge. Residents are expected to check-out within 24 hours of their
last final exam.

3. You and your roommate(s) will be issued a cleaning contract. Your living unit will be inspected
thoroughly for cleanliness and damages. If there is a cleaning contract, the resident who signed
for a particular area will be responsible for the charges if that area is not cleaned. All residents
are held responsible if no one signs for a particular area (assuming other duties have been fairly
and evenly assigned) or a cleaning contract has not been signed.

4. Moving out without giving proper notice to your Resident Assistant or missing a check-out
appointment is considered an improper check-out. Charges will be assessed to your account.

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 Improper check-out means a student forfeits any right to challenge inventory, damage, or
cleaning charges.

5. Refunds, if any, will be mailed to the forwarding address left with the University. This address
can be changed in the Service Center in Rendleman Hall and via usps.gov.

6. Guidelines for approved contract cancellations are covered in the Terms and Conditions.

7. University Housing reserves the right to assess additional charges for an improper check out,
cleaning, and damages after the resident has checked out.

8. Upon check-out, all personal items should be out of the living unit and storage area. Residents
will be charged for labor involved in removal or storage of any belongings left behind. Items left
behind by residents after a check-out will be disposed of or donated. Replacement of missing or
damaged University property will be charged at the replacement cost. Damages to floors, walls,
ceilings, and grounds will be charged at the cost of labor and materials.

Condition Reports

Your living unit has been inspected and any recognized deficiencies have been reported and repaired or
are in the process of being repaired. If you find any deficiencies in your living unit, please submit a
Maintenance Request to UHFM via www.siue.edu/housing within 7 calendar days of checking into your
unit. Please reference the issue as a “Condition Report” item when making your request. Items
reported after 7 days of check in may result in charges to your student account if repairs are found to be
the result of excessive abuse or vandalism.

Insurance

In case of loss, theft, natural disaster, equipment malfunction, or other damage, University Housing
does not insure your personal property. Residents are encouraged to check their parent(s)’ insurance
coverage. If residents are not covered by their parent(s)’ homeowner policy, they should check with
their insurance agent about renter’s insurance. Also, make sure any vehicles and contents are insured.

Vacancy Consolidation

Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls

Students who have not contracted for a single occupancy room, otherwise known as a deluxe private,
and do not have a roommate at any time during the semester must either begin paying a deluxe private
rate or obtain a roommate from a list of students in the hall who also do not have roommates. In the
latter case, they must have a change in rooms and roommates approved in writing by the Community
Director and completely accomplish the change in rooms within seven days after being notified by the
Community Director. If the entire process has not occurred within this seven day period, the student(s)
shall automatically begin to be charged and be legally obligated to pay for their room(s) on a prorated
basis at the higher single room rate. Exceptions from the requirement are as follows:

1. If there is an uneven number of students without roommates within a given residence hall, one
of the individuals selected by the Community Director will not be required to consolidate or pay

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 a single room rate until the next vacancy occurs in that building or until the University reassigns
the space. This individual is selected based on the earliest application date on file in the Central
Housing Office. The housing staff is available to assist in the location of roommates and the
coordination of changes.

Cougar Village and Evergreen Hall

If a living unit has only one resident and no other student is available for assignment to it, the
Community Director will consolidate by moving the resident to another living unit. Any vacancy remains
under the jurisdiction of the Community Director for assignment, reassignment, or room changes. A
resident of a living unit with a vacancy who in any way discourages another resident(s) or prospective
resident(s) is subject to administrative review of assignment or contract status and may be subject to
disciplinary action and/or be required to move.

Information Release Policy

If it is your desire to have personal information including local address and phone number withheld from
the public, complete and sign a “SIUE Directory Information Hold Request/Cancellation Form.” These
forms may be obtained at the Commons Desk or any residence hall front desk. The completed form
must be returned to the Service Center by the end of the first week of classes. Failure to return this
form will result in released information. If problems arise, an information release form may be
submitted at any time.

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Safety and Security
Asbestos Notification

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is committed to providing a safe and healthy
environment for its students, tenants and contractors. To support this commitment, SIUE has
developed and implemented an Asbestos Management Plan for Cougar Village. This plan has been
prepared using the most current guidance from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The objectives of the plan are (1) compile an
inventory of building materials that has been found to contain asbestos and (2) manage these asbestos
containing materials in place in a manner that prevents exposure to airborne asbestos.

In order to accomplish the objectives of the plan, it is important for all building occupants to be aware of
the types and location of ACM (Asbestos Containing Material) on the site, so that disturbance of these
materials and potential release of asbestos fibers can be avoided. The following building materials have
been found to contain asbestos: drywall/joint compound, floor tile/baseboard mastic, and pipe fitting
insulation.

The plan also contains a number of guidelines for building occupants. Some of the main guidelines
include the following:

• Do not drill, bore, cut, tear, or otherwise disturb or damage building materials that contain
asbestos. If you are unsure if a building material contains asbestos, contact the Asbestos
Program Manager (APM), Environmental Health and Safety at x3584, prior to any activities that
may disturb the material.

• If it is necessary to disturb building materials contact the APM. The APM will be able to facilitate
completing work that may disturb ACM using trained personnel and proper control procedures.

• If you notice anyone disturbing ACM or if the condition of ACM deteriorates, report this
information to the APM as soon as possible.

Barbecue Grills

Barbecue grills can become a cause for fire/smoke damage and therefore the following policies have
been set regarding their use:

• No gas grills are permitted in University Housing.

• No barbecue grills are permitted inside any housing facilities.
• No barbecue grills may be stored or used on the balconies of Cougar Village.
• Barbecue grills may be used 15 feet from the buildings.
• At Cougar Village, grills may be stored next to the buildings when they are cool; however, they
should not be stored between the air conditioning units and the buildings. Grills should never be
stored inside the apartment buildings.
• Personal grills should not be secured to buildings or any part of the air conditioning systems.
• Coals should be disposed of in trash dumpsters when cool enough. They should not be dumped
on grass or dirt areas.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 15

Emergencies

911

If the police, fire department, or ambulance are needed call 911. If other assistance is needed, call the
Commons Building (x2900), Bluff Hall (x4253), Prairie Hall (x4252), Woodland Hall (x4255), or Evergreen
Hall (x4254) front desk. Staff on duty will assist you. For apartment residents, if the Commons Building
is closed, call SIUE Police at 911 for emergencies or x3324 for non-emergencies. SIUPD will contact the
RA on duty.

Fire

Cougar Village

Call University Police at 911 and immediately notify the Cougar Village Commons desk (x2900).

In the event of FIRE, Cougar Village residents should proceed in the following manner:

1. When the alarm is given, all residents, except fire crews and others with specific assignments
must leave the building immediately. Try the nearest exit. If the door or door handle is
extremely hot, do not open; remain in your living unit keeping doors tightly closed and go to the
balcony or window to await rescue by the fire department.

2. Do NOT put water on a grease fire! Try covering it with a lid to smother.

Bluff, Prairie, Woodland, and Evergreen Halls

In the event of a FIRE, residence hall students should proceed in the following manner:

1. When the alarm is given, all residents, except fire crews and others with specific assignments
must leave the building immediately. Every alarm must be treated as an emergency.

2. Evacuate using the stairwells closest to the wing you are in. If the door is hot, return to your
room and close the door. Wait by the nearest window for rescue from the fire department.

3. Persons leaving the building for evacuation purposes should take an I.D., jacket, and shoes with
them. They should not try to take any other personal items.

4. All persons evacuating the building should meet at the activity wings as follows: Prairie Hall
should proceed to Woodland Hall, Woodland Hall should proceed to Prairie Hall, Bluff Hall
should proceed to Evergreen Hall, and Evergreen Hall should proceed to Bluff Hall.

5. The circle drives in front of the residence halls are non-parking areas designated for
EMERGENCY VEHICLES ONLY. The fire department may use force to remove unattended
vehicles blocking the way of the emergency vehicles.

6. When fire and police officials arrive on the scene, they are automatically in charge of the

SIUE Housing Living Guide 16

 situation. They will give the “ALL CLEAR” when the buildings are safe to be entered.

Fire Alarms

Residents are expected to evacuate the building immediately for a fire alarm or when directed to do so.
Failure to quickly and promptly obey the direction of a University Housing or civil official during an
emergency will result in disciplinary action. Residence hall students should bring Cougar Cards with
them when evacuating the building, as they will be required to swipe their Cougar Cards upon re-
entering.

When an individual smoke detector is activated in Bluff, Prairie, or Evergreen Halls, a horn will sound
when the alarm is activated. A signal will be sent to the fire alarm panel at the front desk. At Woodland
Hall, the horn will sound when the alarm is activated; however, no signal will be sent to the fire alarm
panel at the front desk. Staff will enter the living unit upon hearing the alarm to verify the conditions.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are located in each Cougar Village apartment, in building hallways, and in the Bluff,
Prairie, Woodland, and Evergreen Hall hallways. These may be used in case of a fire. If a fire
extinguisher is discharged or below accepted levels (needs recharging) you must report it to University
Housing Facilities Management (x3626) immediately so that it may be recharged. Tampering with fire
extinguishers or other safety equipment is prohibited. Depleting the safety device can leave residents
defenseless in the event of a fire. Residents responsible for destructive use of an extinguisher will be
charged the cost of recharging or replacing equipment and will be subject to disciplinary procedures.

Electrical Appliances

A reasonable number of electrical appliances may be used if they are electrically safe and do not have
exposed wires or heating elements. The wiring in Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls is not able to
handle high-wattage appliances such as hot plates, broilers, skillets, woks, air conditioners, microwaves,
toaster ovens, space heaters and the like. The only exception is a coffee pot. Cooking in Bluff, Prairie,
and Woodland Hall rooms and bedrooms of Evergreen Hall is not permitted. Halogen lamps are not
permitted in any University Housing living unit.

Residents may have an electric alarm clock, electric blanket, study lamp, hair dryer, razor, curler, radio,
television, stereo (headphones are encouraged), and refrigerator, provided it is less than 5.0 cubic feet,
no more than three amps, and only one per resident. If an extension cord is used, it should only have
one appliance attached to it. Cords should not be used for refrigerators or appliances over 100 watts.
No electric cords are allowed through doorways or windows.

Overloading Outlets

All living units are wired to provide ample outlets in each room. Overloading outlets with multiple plug
connectors or extension cords is very dangerous. If this happens, circuits may become overloaded,
cause the wires to melt, and possibly start a fire. Cougar Village and Evergreen Hall kitchens and
bathrooms and Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Hall bathrooms have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
outlets. These devices are designed to protect against hazardous electrical shocks that can happen

SIUE Housing Living Guide 17

when one touches an appliance or cord that is “live” through a faulty mechanism, or damp/worn
insulation. The circuit interrupter cuts the electricity to that outlet to protect against serious electrical
injury.

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are located in the living room and bedrooms of each Cougar Village apartment and
Evergreen Hall unit and in each room of Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls to increase your safety.
Smoke detectors in Cougar Village apartments have a light that will illuminate when the signal is in
alarm. When the alarm is activated, an audible sound will occur in the hallway, breezeway, and/or living
unit.

The smoke detectors in Woodland Hall have an alarm horn and a red light. The light should be on at all
times. This indicates that it is in working order. At Prairie, Bluff, and Evergreen Halls, the light blinks and
is green to indicate that it is working properly.

Do not tamper with smoke alarms. If the alarm is tampered with or removed, an audible signal will
occur in the hallway or breezeway. If you hear this sound, call 911 immediately. The smoke detector is
designed to detect the smoke that results from an actual fire. If the smoke detector is not working,
report it to University Housing Facilities Management (x3626). Dismantling, turning off, or otherwise
covering this appliance is prohibited and will result in termination of your residency.

Fire Safety Equipment

Tampering with fire equipment is a violation of the SIUE Student Code of Conduct as well as state and
federal law. People found guilty of tampering with fire equipment (alarms, hoses, extinguishers, smoke
detectors, sprinklers, door closures, emergency exits, fire alarm pull stations, etc.) for other than actual
emergency situations or intentionally setting false fire alarms face a jail sentence, fines up to $10,000,
and expulsion from the University.

Burning any substance or setting fires in the halls, including fliers or other posted material, will also
result in criminal prosecution. Housing staff will enter your living unit during Safety Inspections and
some breaks to check door closures and smoke detectors for proper working order. Should these items
be found missing, inoperative, or dismantled in any way, they will be repaired immediately and charges
will be assessed to the residents of the appropriate living unit. If the smoke detector is not working or
fire extinguisher needs to be recharged, residents should report it to University Housing Facilities
Management (x3626) or by submitting a Maintenance Request online at www.siue.edu/housing.

Tornado or other inclement weather

Cougar Village

In the event of a TORNADO or other inclement weather alert, a long, wavering intermittent civil defense
siren will sound. Cougar Village residents should proceed in the following manner:

1. When the civil defense siren alert is sounded, residents in the 500 area should proceed
immediately to:

SIUE Housing Living Guide 18

 a. a downstairs neighboring apartment; or,
b. the kitchen area of your apartment under the breakfast bar.

2. When the civil defense siren alert is sounded, residents in the 400 area should proceed
immediately to:
a. the kitchen or bathroom areas of a first floor apartment; or,
b. the center of the first floor of your building under the stairwell.

3. The local media will carry ALL CLEAR information.

Bluff, Prairie, Woodland, and Evergreen Halls

In the event of a TORNADO or other inclement weather alert, a long, wavering intermittent civil defense
siren will sound. Residence hall students should proceed immediately to the first floor residential
hallways or bathrooms (away from lounge windows). The local media will carry ALL CLEAR information.

If the siren sounds, it is usually too late to proceed to a remote protected area. Go to an interior room
such as a hallway, closet, or bathroom. Crouch low to the floor, facing down, and cover your head with
your hands. A bathtub may offer partial protection. Cover yourself with a mattress, blankets, etc. to
protect against falling debris.

Medical Emergency

In case of serious injury at the University, observe the following procedures:

1. Contact University Police by dialing 911.

2. Give your name; describe the nature and severity of the medical problem and the location of the
victim.
3. Do not move the injured except for protection from further injury.
4. Stay with the victim until the police and ambulance arrive.
5. If blood is present, contact University Housing Facilities Management to clean the blood spot.
Do not administer first aid except for the following: Flush any chemical and/or fire burns with
cold water or immerse the affected area in cold water if possible.

Keys
The living unit key you receive at check-in is the principle means of security for your belongings and
those of your roommate(s). Keep your living unit locked at all times to prevent theft. The key is
University property and may not be loaned or duplicated. Lending a key to anyone or attempting to
obtain another resident’s lock out key is a security violation and will be treated as a disciplinary matter.

Lock-outs/Key Control

Residence Halls

If you live in Bluff, Prairie, or Woodland Halls, you will have one room key and one separate mailbox key.
Your room key will also open your bathroom. Residents of Evergreen Hall will have a key to open the
living unit and a separate mailbox key.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 19

Cougar Village

If you live in Cougar Village, the keys for your assigned apartment, mailbox, and storage closet are issued
to you when you check in. On the 400 side your apartment door key also opens your storage closet and
your mailbox. On the 500 side, your apartment key also opens your mailbox. There is a separate key for
the storage closet that is located in your apartment.

Family Residents Note: A key will only by issued to the contracted resident. To receive another key,
you must see your Community Director. Keys (including lock-out keys) will not be issued to children
under 12 years of age.

If you lose your key, you have two or three options:

1. You may check out a file key from the Commons Desk for thirty minutes or your residence hall
front desk for fifteen minutes while you search for your key. If the file key is not returned within
the time designated for your area, you may be charged for a recore or a $10.00 ($12 CV) late
return fee, depending on the length of time a key is checked out. No one except assigned
residents may check out a key for a living unit. Any inappropriate use of the key privilege will
result in referral to the Community Director for disciplinary procedures.

2. You may request a lock change at the front desk if you believe your key was lost or stolen. If
the lock is recored, you will be charged for the replacement. The cost varies upon the type of
living unit. A temporary core will be installed within 24 hours during regular business hours.

3. If you are locked out of your residence hall room, a housing staff member cannot let a resident
or anyone else into another resident’s room for any reason. If you are locked out of your
apartment when the Commons Building is closed, call the University Police (x3324). A
member of the University Housing staff will meet you at the Commons Building to assist you.
You must have a picture I.D. and a $25 charge will apply.

Light Poles and Other Exterior Lighting

University Housing attempts to provide the safest environment possible for its residents. Part of this
effort is providing adequate lighting for all residential areas and parking lots. Residents are asked to
report to UHFM via www.siue.edu/housing lights that are not working. When placing a Maintenance
Request, please identify the light pole by the number on its base or building light by building number
and building side (AB/AD or B/C, 400 and 500 side).

Safety Inspections

A safety inspection is conducted in every living unit each term. The purpose of this inspection is to check
for conditions relative to standards required by the University for the safety of the residents. Residents
are expected to follow the procedures listed below in order to ensure that their living unit passes the
safety inspection. Violations of University Housing Guidelines will be noted.
Residents will receive advance notice from their Community Director informing them of the date when
the safety inspection will take place as well as preparation guidelines for the inspection.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 20

In Cougar Village, a cleaning inspection will be performed by Resident Assistants prior to the safety
inspection in order to aid residents in correcting possible safety deficiencies. NOTE: This inspection is not
the safety inspection - only a preliminary check by your Resident Assistant.

Cleaning and safety inspections for the residence halls are held at the same time. If you have any
questions regarding this procedure you may contact your Resident Assistant.

Security in the Residence Halls

If you live in a residence hall, your Cougar Card (student ID) will open the main doors that are locked
from 11:00 pm to 7:00 am. These doors are designed to keep non-residents out and help prevent theft
and vandalism. Never open a door for strangers. Do not admit the people the locks were intended to
exclude. If they have any business inside, they will either have an accessible ID or be accompanied by a
host resident.

Residents are required to carry their Cougar Cards at all times and to show/swipe the card each time
they enter the living area of their building. We expect your patience and consideration during busy
times. Visitors must stop at the front desks and register. The guest must leave a valid picture ID and
must be escorted by a resident host.

This visitation policy allows you to have guests between the hours of 8:00 am - 2:00 am. Anyone staying
past 2:00 am is considered an overnight guest and must be approved 24 hours in advance if you live in
Bluff, Prairie, or Woodland Halls.

Swiping I.D.s in the Residence Halls

Before entering the residential area, all residents must swipe their Cougar Card in the electronic card
reader at the front desk. Front Desk Managers/ Housing staff reserve the right to inspect a Cougar Card
when swiped at the front desk. This is to confirm the bearer of the card is the rightful possessor of the
I.D. card.

It is considered fraud to allow another person to use your Cougar Card to gain entry into the building or
to use your meal plan. Staff members also reserve the right to inspect bags, backpacks, and book bags
to check for alcoholic beverages and other prohibited items. Guests will be signed in at the front desk
and I.D.s from the guests and host will be kept at the desk. Any resident or guest who behaves in an
inappropriate manner toward the desk manager or other staff member will be referred for disciplinary
action.

Stolen/Illegal Items

Stolen or illegal items in plain view by a University Housing staff member upon entering a living unit on
official business will be confiscated and held as evidence in disciplinary actions or reported to SIUE
Police Department for legal action.

Natural Gas Safety

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

SIUE Housing Living Guide 21

CO2 detectors are located in the 400-side units at Cougar Village to monitor carbon monoxide. The
alarms are centrally monitored such that an audible sound will occur if dangerous levels of CO2 are
detected within the living unit. CO2 detectors are only needed on the 400-side as these units utilize
natural gas for heating and cooking. If your CO2 detector goes into alarm, move immediately to a spot
where fresh air is available, preferably outdoors. Find a phone in an area where the air is safe and call
911.

In case of a gas leak:

Do: Evacuate the premises, leave the door open on your way out, leave the area if you are outside, go
outside to report the leak (call 911), and stay away until the fire department clears area.

Don’t: Operate switches/electrical devices, turn on any lights, use any matches, use the phone in the
unit, use a flashlight, turn on TV or radio, or use cell phone or pager.

Pest Control

Submit an online Maintenance Request via www.siue.edu/housing if pests are discovered in your living
unit. If you have an emergency situation during business hours (Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.),
contact UHFM at x3626. The pest control company inspects living units on a routine basis. No living unit
is exempt from treatment when required unless a doctor’s note is provided no less than 48-hours in
advance of scheduled treatment. If you request treatment for any pest problem, you should know the
location of the problem before you call. The more information you provide, the more successful the
treatment will be.

University Housing subscribes to pest control referred to as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM is
a multifaceted system of pest control that prioritizes sanitation to halt the breeding cycle of pests. The
pest control service is contracted to a local company that utilizes a five step approach to IPM:
Inspection, Identification, Recommendation, Treatment, and Evaluation. If you have any questions
about this process, please contact UHFM (x3626).

What you can do to prevent roaches:

• Report all water and air conditioning leaks immediately.

• Clean grease daily around the stove and sink area. (Get in the habit of cleaning the stove and
cooking area after each use.)
• Pull out the stove, cabinet, and refrigerator at least once per semester. Wash the floor under
these appliances. Wash all dirt and grease that collects on the sides.
• Do not collect any paper bags, magazines, newspapers, etc. in the kitchen area. Roaches love to
make nests in paper. Pick-up any paper that might have fallen behind or between the stove and
cabinets.
• Cabinets and counter tops should be kept clean, dry, and grease free. Do not use contact paper
because roaches eat the glue.
• Dishes and cooking utensils should be promptly cleaned after each use.
• Towels, dish cloths, and wet cloths should be kept in a tight container until cleaned. Items
should be washed as soon as possible.
• Store all opened food (cereal, salt, rice, sugar, etc.) or fresh fruits and vegetables in glass or

SIUE Housing Living Guide 22

 plastic containers with lids.
• All garbage should be disposed of daily to a trash room in your hall or a trash dumpster at CV.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 23

Standards for Student Conduct
Understanding the University Housing Student Conduct Process

The University Housing Student Conduct process is designed to encourage students’ growth and
development. Personal growth will result in responsible behavior and the exercise of sound principles
for healthy interpersonal relationships. This underscores the importance of self-discipline and respect
for the rights and privileges of others.

The total disciplinary effort encompasses correction and prevention rather than punishment alone. Due
process is an essential part of this approach to discipline and is emphasized to ensure a fair hearing. Due
process entails notice of charges, a fair hearing, and right to appeal.

Thus, no matter which University agent deals with a particular disciplinary situation, consideration is
given to all factors and information relative to the case.

Responsibility for Maintaining University Housing Student Conduct Process

Whenever a number of people live together in a community, it becomes necessary to formulate

procedures and regulations to provide for an orderly environment. University Housing procedures and
regulations have been developed by students and staff to ensure equality of opportunity for each
student and student group in the attainment of academic and personal objectives. SIUE considers
students to be mature individuals who are responsible for establishing and accepting appropriate
standards of conduct. All students are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the
regulations of University Housing, the University, and such laws of the city, state, and federal
government that apply, and particularly, to respect the rights of other citizens in the University Housing
community.

If self-responsibility and self-discipline are not exercised by each individual residing in University
Housing, it becomes necessary for University Housing to exercise its responsibility for the maintenance
of individual discipline as delegated by the Chancellor and the Board of Trustees of SIU.

Student Conduct Process

The University Housing Student Conduct process consists of five steps.

1. Notice of a possible violation should be reported to a Community Director (Hearing Officer).

Notice of a possible violation can be submitted in writing by anyone in the University
community.

2. After reviewing the notice of a possible violation, the Hearing Officer or Assistant Community
Director (Hearing Officer) will request in writing an initial conference with the student or
students involved. The notice must contain: The request for a conference by a specified
deadline, and the alleged conduct of the student or guest; i.e., charges. The purpose of the
meeting is to make the student aware of charges and discuss his/her involvement in order to
determine whether further action is warranted.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 24

3. The Hearing Officer manages the initial conference. Should the Hearing Officer be one of the
parties involved in the matter at issue, another Hearing Officer will be appointed by the Director
of University Housing to manage the initial conference. At the conference, the Hearing Officer
will:

a. Explain the charges and request information from the student.

b. Determine if further action is warranted.
c. Request a plea from the student.
d. Determine if the Hearing Officer can decide the case or if the student must be charged
with social misconduct as outlined in the Student Conduct Code. If students are non-
residents or the incident may jeopardize the student’s enrollment status, the case will
not be decided by the Hearing Officer.
f. If the student does not attend the initial meeting/hearing, the case is decided based on
the information the Hearing Officer has at the time.

4. If it is determined that the Hearing Officer will decide the case, he/she may do so at the initial
conference. He/she has the following options:

a. Dismissing the case. A letter will be sent to the student to confirm the decision. A copy
of that letter will be placed in the student’s University Housing file.
b. Sanctioning the student. The Hearing Officer will apply the appropriate sanction (see
Sanctions). The decision concerning an appropriate sanction may be discussed in the
initial conference. However, a decision may or may not be made during the initial
conference. A written decision will be made during or after the initial conference.
c. Referring the case to the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs as social
misconduct. The case will be processed through the SIUE Student Conduct Code. The
Hearing Officer will provide the Director of University Housing with the incident report
and notes from the initial conference. This information will be forwarded to the Vice
Chancellor for Student Affairs or designee.

5. A student has the right to appeal the decision of the Hearing Officer. Appeals should be
submitted in writing to the Director of University Housing within two working days of the date
of the sanction letter.

Standard of Evidence

Formal rules of evidence are not applicable to the University Housing Student Conduct Process. If a
student denies responsibility for an alleged policy infraction, the Hearing Officer must make his/her
decision based on the preponderance of the evidence. After weighing all of the available evidence, the
Hearing Officer will decide whether there is more evidence (greater than 50%) that the student is
responsible for the misconduct than evidence that they were not.

Sanctions

This section defines the sanctions which may be imposed for violating University Housing Terms and
Conditions or living guidelines. The sanctions listed in this section may be imposed independently or in
combination. Sanctions should be selected and imposed with two goals in mind: (1) to protect the

SIUE Housing Living Guide 25

members of the University Housing community and (2) to assist in the education of the person
responsible.

1. Disciplinary Reprimand. An oral conference or written reprimand noting the seriousness of the
violation of the University Housing rules and regulations.

2. Disciplinary Warning Status. A written warning noting that repetition of violations or additional
violations will subject the student to further sanctions. This warning shall last for a stated period
of time and until the conditions of any other imposed sanctions have been met.

3. Assessment for Restitution. Payment for the restoration of property. Failure to pay the assessed
amount in a specific period of time will prevent the student from obtaining transcripts and
registering for classes, and may subject the student to further sanctions.

4. University Residence Probation. The requirement imposed by the Hearing Officer that the
student demonstrate, for a specific period of time, the capacity of conduct in conformance with
the University residential (housing) standards. Any violation of University and Housing policies
while on University Residence Probation may result in separation from the University residence
and/or other sanctions.

5. Parents Notification. The University may notify parents of students under the age of 21 years
for violations of Federal, State, or local law or institutional disciplinary rule or policy regarding
the use or possession of alcohol or controlled substances.

6. University Residence Transfer. The transfer of a student from one University residence (living
unit or building) to another by the Director of University Housing or designee.

7. Community Service. Any violator of the University Housing Terms and Conditions and/or
Housing policies may be required to perform community service. A student may choose to
perform community service in lieu of an assessment for restitution for damage to University
property.

8. Referral to Intervention Program. If the Hearing Officer, Associate Director of Residence Life, or
Director of University Housing perceives that it is necessary that a student be referred to an
intervention program, he/she may choose to do so. Refusal on the part of the student may
result in further disciplinary action. The student may be required to attend or participate in a
workshop, program or creative sanction (such as a paper, bulletin board, etc.).

9. Loss of Privileges. Denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time, including but
not limited to: loss of participation in certain activities and/or loss of access to designated
facilities or areas.

10. Suspension. Excludes a student from University Housing facilities for any reason during the
stated period of suspension and disallows a student from all activities sponsored by University
Housing, whether on or off campus. A resident student under a weekend suspension is
prohibited from being in University Housing facilities following his/her final class on Friday
through 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 26

11. Notification of Termination of Residency. A student will be required to properly check out 72
hours after notification. In cases in which a resident’s behavior constitutes a significant threat
to the safety of the residents or other persons or to the property of others or the University, a
maximum of 24 hours’ notice will be given. The resident will be held financially responsible for
50% of the remainder of the contract.

12. Charged with Social Misconduct as outlined in the Student Conduct Code. A student may be
charged with social misconduct in case of a serious infraction, or any incident relating to the
University Housing policies, rules, and regulations.

Consistency and Fairness

Hearing Officers must evaluate each situation and student individually to arrive at the most appropriate
sanction. As a result, a sanction for one student may differ from one for another with a “similar” policy
infraction. The Hearing Officer must consider multiple factors, including the details of the current
incident, the student’s previous conduct history, attitude, and other factors in his/her decision.

Appeals

Students should follow these guidelines carefully when appealing a University Housing charge, payment
extension, a staff member’s decision, or contract cancellation:

1. All appeals must be made in writing. It is important that the appeal be clear, concise, factual,
and thorough.
2. The student who wishes to appeal a decision must submit a written appeal along with any
supporting documentation. Each case will be considered on its own merits.
3. All disciplinary appeals must be made within two (2) business days of the decision.
4. All damage charge appeals must be made within ninety (90) days of the decision if the resident
has vacated. Appeals for damages of current residents must be made within two (2) business
days of charge notification.
5. The Community Director is the appeal officer for actions taken by the Resident Assistant or
Assistant Community Director.
6. The Associate Director of Housing is the appeal officer for decisions made by the Central
Housing staff.
7. The Director of University Housing or designee is the appeal officer for disciplinary actions taken
by the Community Director.
8. The Director of University Housing will hear all appeals of University Housing decisions after the
preceding steps have been followed.

Proceedings

All proceedings, including the initial conduct meeting are carried out in a manner which is informal and
at the same time assures fundamental fairness. Records regarding conduct proceedings, including
incident reports, conduct letters, notes for conduct meetings, and records from appeal proceedings, will
be maintained by University Housing. These records may be reviewed by the student who is involved,
during normal business hours. A request to review these records must be made 24 hours in advance, so
records may be prepared for viewing. Personal information of other students will be omitted to protect

SIUE Housing Living Guide 27

privacy. Records will not be available to any member of the public except upon written consent of the
student involved.

Statement of Student Rights

1. The student has the right to a thorough conduct meeting.

2. The student has the right to a fair conduct meeting. In cases of obvious and/or significant bias,
the student may request an alternate Hearing Officer.
3. The student has the right to review the incident report(s), sanction letter(s), and any other notes
or documents pertaining to his or her case.
4. The student has the right to one level of appeal within the University Housing Student Conduct
process.
5. The student has the right to be informed of all allegations made against him/her prior to the
conduct meeting.
6. The student has the right to have a student, faculty, or staff support person in any conduct
meeting pertaining to his/her case. (This individual serves as an advisor to, rather than a
representative for, the student.)

a. The support person’s role is to observe the process and provide support and guidance
to the student, as needed. The support person does not “represent” the student or
speak on his/her behalf.
b. Resident Assistants may not serve as a support person due to the potential for conflict
of interest. However, the RA can always serve as a resource for students prior to and
after the conduct meeting.
c. The support person may not have a conflict of interest with the case being investigated.

Prohibited Items

The following items are not allowed in any University Housing units. This includes Bluff, Prairie,
Woodland, Evergreen, and Cougar Village.

 Appliances. Full-size refrigerators other than those already provided (only units up to 5 cubic
feet are allowed) are prohibited. Dishwashers or any other large appliance are prohibited.
Washers and dryers are not permitted in the living units. Laundry facilities are available in all
residence halls, the Cougar Village Commons Building, and in buildings 405 & 429 of Cougar
Village (see page 38).

 Pets. The ONLY pets that are allowed in University Housing are fish in an aquarium. Aquariums
are limited to 30 gallons. Residents may not volunteer to watch a pet nor have one visit. If it is
confirmed that you have an animal in your living unit, your residency may be terminated.
Residents are discouraged from feeding the wildlife (for example, geese, deer, cats, etc).

 Candles/Open Flames. Open flames such as those from candles and incense are extremely
dangerous and not permitted in any University Housing living unit. Candles are allowed for
decorating purposes as long as the wick has been removed. Burnt candles and candles with
wicks intact will be confiscated by Housing staff.
 Firearms, Weapons and Combustibles. Firearms, ammunition, BB guns, stun guns, air guns,

SIUE Housing Living Guide 28

 pellet guns, paint guns, firecrackers, bows and arrows, knives more than 3" long, martial arts
weapons, and gasoline (or other combustible items) are not permitted in University Housing.
State Law requires that students, faculty, and staff must be granted written permission from the
chief security officer on campus before bringing firearms, weapons, and ammunition to
University properties. Any firearms, weapons, and/or ammunition must be stored with the SIUE
Police Department on campus. The SIUE Police Department provides twenty-four hour
accessibility.

 Lofts/Waterbeds. Due to safety and weight limitations, bed lofts and waterbeds are not allowed
in University Housing. Lofting includes the use of additional structures and supports other than
those provided by University Housing. Additionally, extra bed posts may not be used to loft a
bed.

 Recreational and Sporting Equipment. In order to maintain a reasonable level of safety and
noise, playing with sporting equipment of any kind (including roller blading, skateboarding,
scooters, and bouncing balls) is prohibited in all University Housing buildings. This equipment
may be stored in the living unit, but must not be used until they are outside of the building.

 Super Soakers, sling shots, laser tag, and other recreational equipment that can injure another
or cause damage to property will not be allowed in any University Housing facility or on
University Housing property.

 Rollerblades (Inline Skates) and skateboards may not be used inside of any building, on the
Commons Building deck, on bike racks, or on the tennis and basketball courts.

 Water fights are hazardous to personal safety and damaging to University property and are not
allowed inside any University Housing building. Those participating in water fights inside are
subject to disciplinary action.

 Satellite Dishes. Satellite dishes that attach to any University Housing facility (including balcony
railings) are prohibited.

 Barbeque Grills. No gas grills are permitted in University Housing. No barbecue grills are
permitted inside any housing facilities. No barbecue grills may be stored or used on the
balconies of Cougar Village.

 Extension Cords. All single and multiple use extension cords must be U.L. approved outlet strip
with fuse or breaker.

 Devices used for rapid consumption. This includes but is not limited to: funnels, bongs, shot
glasses, beer pong tables, etc.

 Liquid bleach. Prohibited in all facilities except in Cougar Village. It can damage carpet located in
Bluff, Prairie, Woodland, and Evergreen Halls.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 29

The following items are not allowed in Bluff, Woodland, or Prairie Halls.

 Microwaves and are not allowed in Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls. The only exception is a
coffee pot. Refrigerators are limited to those 5.0 cu. ft. or less. No other large appliances are
allowed.

 Any appliances with exposed heating elements. This includes but is not limited to: hot plates,
toasters, toaster ovens, Foreman Grills, etc. The only exception is a coffee pot. Cooking in
student rooms is extremely dangerous and is not permitted. Residents who violate this policy
are subject to charges and disciplinary action.

 Alcohol or alcohol containers. All alcohol containers, both full and empty, are prohibited in
Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland.

Alcohol Policy

Each resident of University Housing is responsible for informing his/her guests of these regulations and
ensuring that guests are in compliance with the University policy on alcoholic beverages. The resident
may be subject to disciplinary action for guests’ non-compliance with these regulations. Non-student
guests may be subject to civil and criminal action for violation of these regulations.

Intoxication

Intoxication is not an acceptable or appropriate condition and may be cause for disciplinary action.
Intoxication is defined as either (1) not having the normal use of mental or physical facilities due to the
introduction of alcohol or other drugs into the body; or (2) having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of
0.08 or more.

All guests who visit University Housing are subject to the following regulations:

Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls

No alcohol, alcohol containers (even if empty), or devices used for rapid consumption of alcohol (i.e. -
funnels, bongs, shot glasses, beer pong tables, etc.) are permitted in Bluff, Prairie, or Woodland Halls at
any time. Controlled substances are also prohibited. Guests must adhere to the no alcohol policy.
Anyone found in violation of this policy is subject to University and University Housing discipline.

Evergreen Hall & Cougar Village

1. Residents of Evergreen Hall and Cougar Village and their guests who are 21 years of age or older
who choose to possess or consume alcoholic beverages may do so in the following places and/or
circumstances, except for the provisions of policy 6C1 paragraphs 2-4 (Regulations Governing
Alcoholic Beverages at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville).

a. If alcoholic beverages are possessed or consumed, then those beverages must be

present only in private living areas, which are defined as the individual living unit of the
resident. A private living area does not include such areas as lounges, indoor
recreational areas, breezeways, hallways, stairwells, balconies, parking lots, patios,

SIUE Housing Living Guide 30

 multipurpose rooms, laundry areas, grounds surrounding any University building, or
other public areas.

b. Those students who are 21 years of age or older may bring alcoholic beverages into
living units; however, alcoholic beverages may only be carried to living units in non-
transparent bags. If the alcoholic beverages are clearly visible, the alcoholic beverages
will be confiscated and destroyed. Violation of this provision of the policy may result in
disciplinary sanctions as listed in the Student Conduct Code.

c. Alcoholic beverages carried or transported in containers which are open will be

confiscated and destroyed. Violation of this provision of the policy may result in
disciplinary sanctions as listed under Part D in the Student Conduct Code.

2. Containers holding more than one gallon of alcoholic beverages or devices promoting the rapid
consumption of alcohol (i.e. - funnels, bongs, beer pong tables, etc.) are prohibited on University
property and will be confiscated. No kegs are permitted. Possession of a keg(s) may lead to
termination of residency.

3. Unregistered and/or unapproved events in University Housing where alcoholic beverages are
present and where nine or more people are gathered are strictly prohibited. Unregistered and
unapproved events shall be considered a violation of this policy and violators will be subject to
disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Conduct Code.

Regulations for Registered Events with Alcoholic Beverages Present at Cougar Village or Evergreen Hall

A. In order to sponsor an event with alcoholic beverages present in a Cougar Village apartment or
Evergreen Hall unit the following regulations apply:

1. One host who is a currently enrolled student, who is 21 years of age or older, and a
resident of the living unit sponsoring the event must be identified.

2. An “Event with Alcohol Application” must be completed by the host and signed by all
residents living in the unit and returned to the Cougar Village Commons front desk or
the Evergreen Hall office at least three business days before the event.

3. The application will be forwarded to the Community Director who will approve or deny
the event based on the regulations stated in this policy. The Community Director will
notify the host of the status of the application 24 hours before the event.

4. If this is the first time the student is hosting an event with alcoholic beverages, the
Community Director will meet with the host and explain the regulations.

5. The host must agree to satisfy the responsibilities of the hosts listed in the
Responsibilities of the Host section.

B. Registered events with alcoholic beverages must adhere to occupancy limits. In Cougar Village,
the limit is no more than 20 people (including residents, hosts, and/or guests) for a first floor

SIUE Housing Living Guide 31

 apartment, and to no more than 11 people for a second floor apartment. In Evergreen Hall, the
limit is four times the normal occupancy of the unit (ex. in a 4-person apartment the limit is 16
including residents, hosts, and/or guests).

C. If a minor lives in the unit where the event with alcoholic beverages is being held, it is his/her
responsibility, as well as the host’s, to make certain that he/she is not served and does not
consume alcoholic beverages. If all the residents of the unit are minors, an event with alcoholic
beverages is prohibited in that unit.

D. Registered events with alcoholic beverages are required to end by 1:30 a.m. Events with
alcoholic beverages present are prohibited in Cougar Village and Evergreen Hall the entire week
of final examinations.

E. The Director of University Housing, or his/her designee, may approve no more than two (2)
events with alcoholic beverages present in any one apartment building or wing during a twenty-
four hour period. The Director or designee may approve only one event with alcoholic
beverages present in any one apartment during a twenty-four hour period.

F. In accordance with Illinois state laws, money may not be collected for any reason or donated
prior to, during, or after a registered event with alcoholic beverages present unless a valid
license issued by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and the Local Liquor Control
Commission has been obtained. All licenses issued by the Illinois Local Liquor Commission must
be brought to the attention of the Office of Risk Management. Use of chips, tickets, or similar
tokens as substitutes for cash is a violation of this policy and is prohibited.

G. A student may not serve alcoholic beverages to any person who appears to be intoxicated.
Some indicators of intoxication include slurred speech, staggering, the smell of alcohol on the
person, bloodshot eyes, and belligerent behavior. This is not to be construed as a definition of
intoxication; however, these indicators are intended to be useful to hosts and other students.

H. No activity that promotes the rapid and irresponsible consumption of alcohol will be tolerated.
These activities include, but are not limited to: “chugging” of alcoholic beverages, competitive
drinking activities (i.e. beer pong tables), and activities that employ peer pressure to entice
people to consume alcoholic beverages.

Responsibilities of Host(s)

A. At an event with alcoholic beverages, the host(s) is responsible for ensuring that only those
students who are 21 years of age or older possess and/or consume alcoholic beverages at an
approved event. Each host must have a plan for ensuring that only those individuals who are 21
years of age or older are served alcoholic beverages. The plan must be explained on the Event
with Alcohol Application form.

B. The host(s) is responsible for the conduct of guests during the event and is expected to exhibit
conduct compatible with acceptable standards as defined in the Student Conduct Code. If the
guests are students, they shall be expected to follow the acceptable standards of conduct as
defined in the Student Conduct Code.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 32

C. At a registered event, the host(s) is responsible for compliance with the Illinois State Laws
regarding alcoholic beverages.

D. The host(s) is responsible for ensuring that persons who appear to be intoxicated are not served
alcoholic beverages.

E. The host(s) must remain alcohol and drug-free throughout the entire event.

F. Non-alcoholic beverages (other than water) and food must be provided in appropriate amounts
in a clearly visible and accessible area throughout the duration of the event. The amount of
non-alcoholic beverages must be at least equal to, if not greater than, the amount of alcoholic
beverages present.

G. Any host(s) who does not comply with this alcoholic beverages policy will be subject to
disciplinary action.

For more information on the Sanction and Enforcement of the Student Alcohol Policy at SIUE, see the
SIUE Student Conduct Code.

Controlled Substances

The Student Conduct Code of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville defines social misconduct to
include violations of University policies and regulations, local ordinances, and state and federal laws,
which include, without limitation, the manufacture, sale or distribution, and or the unauthorized
possession or use of controlled substances. The misuse of chemical or controlled substances that may
create a hazard to oneself or others is considered a violation of this policy. Such violations may result in
termination of residency from University Housing.

Damages, Vandalism and Group Billing

Residents are asked to help preserve their communities by reporting incidents of damage or vandalism
to the Community Director or Assistant Community Director. In all cases, Housing staff will work to
identify the responsible party. If the responsible party cannot be identified, the entire building/wing will
be held responsible. Charges associated with excessive cleaning or repair of damages caused by
vandalism will be divided equally among all residents of the building/wing and the residents will receive
a bill from the University. Residents will be given notice of acts of vandalism and have the opportunity
to present any information that would lead to the identification of the responsible party. Please respect
your community! If you see anyone attempting to vandalize University property or leaving trash in
public areas, please confront them yourself or contact the on-duty staff person for assistance.

You are financially responsible for any damage to your living unit and furnishings other than normal
wear and tear. Furnishings must not be dismantled or removed from the living unit. No University
Housing furniture is to be outside of the buildings, on balconies or in community lounges.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 33

Noise Policy

Noise Restrictions

If you are having difficulty with a neighbor regarding noise, please attempt to talk to the person and
resolve the problem. If you have further difficulty, please call the Front Desk/Commons Desk. The desk
worker will then contact the RA on duty or an RA to follow up with the situation.

Guidelines for noise in University Housing:

1. Noise levels in and around University Housing are expected to be moderate and conducive to a
positive study environment. The right to sleep and study is clearly greater than the right to
make noise. Roommates and neighbors should reach a general agreement about acceptable
noise levels to prevent conflict.

2. Conversation and sound from stereos/radios, televisions, etc. should be kept subdued so that it
cannot be heard outside of the living unit.

3. Conversations in the stairwells, lobbies, hallways, breezeways, or lounges should be conducted

quietly.

4. University Housing Staff may confront residents who are making too much noise even if they
have not yet received a complaint.

5. Residents confronted by University Housing staff or other residents due to noise levels are
expected to reduce the noise level immediately.

6. Courtesy hours should be observed 24 hours a day. If someone complains about noise; it is
noise. Residents who are frequently confronted about noise complaints may be subject to
discipline.

7. Quiet Hours are established for more intense “quietness.” From Sunday-Thursday, quiet hours
are from 10:00 pm – 9:00 am. On Friday and Saturday, quiet hours are from 12:00 am – 12:00
pm. All noise should be kept to a minimum during these times. This includes common areas
such as stairwells, lobbies, hallways, breezeways, and lounges.

8. Students who repeatedly violate the Quiet Hours policy may have their residency terminated.

Finals Week and Noise

Twenty-four hour quiet hours start at 5:00 pm the Friday before exams begin and continue until 12:00
pm the following Saturday. During this time no noise should be heard coming from any room, apartment
or common area at any time, day or night. Please be respectful of your neighbors during this stressful
time!

SIUE Housing Living Guide 34

Pet Policy

The ONLY pets that are allowed in University Housing are fish in an aquarium. Aquariums are limited to
30 gallons. Residents may not volunteer to watch a pet nor have one visit. If it is confirmed that you
have an animal in your living unit, your residency may be terminated. Residents are discouraged from
feeding the wildlife (for example, geese, deer, cats, etc).

Cleaning Guidelines

Cleaning Contracts may be issued by your Community Director or Resident Assistant to those residents
not maintaining a clean and sanitary living unit. A probationary period will be established by your
Community Director and cleaning checks will be conducted at random during the probation period.
Failure to maintain a clean and sanitary living unit after a Cleaning Contract has been issued may result
in termination of residency. Residents are responsible for maintaining living units in a consistently clean
and sanitary condition. The following standards apply:

1. Living units must be kept clean and free of dirt. Properly dispose of trash and garbage in
dumpsters/trash rooms.

2. All roommates will share the cleaning duties equally in the common living area, unless all are
mutually agreeable to another arrangement.

3. All walks, hallways, patios, grounds, and balconies within ten feet of a resident’s apartment
must be kept clean and clear of litter and debris.

4. Halls, lounges, kitchenettes, stoves, and microwaves in residence halls must be kept clean and
clear of litter and debris.

5. Trash and/or garbage must be placed either in the garbage receptacle within the apartment or
in the dumpsters provided in each area near the apartments and in each trash room on each
residence hall floor.

6. All furnishings, fixtures, walls, ceilings, and living unit surfaces are to be kept clean and free of
damage.

Occupancy Policy

These limits have been defined for the safety of residents. Exceeding the capacity may result in
structural damage to floors, ceilings, and balconies. The cost of repairs will be the responsibility of the
resident.

Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls. A maximum of 9 persons may occupy a room at any time.

Evergreen Hall. A maximum of 4 times the number of residents who live in the unit may occupy the unit
at any time.

Cougar Village. A maximum of 20 persons may occupy a first floor apartment, a maximum of 11 persons
may occupy a second floor apartment, a maximum of 5 persons may occupy a balcony.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 35

Guest Policies

Residents are responsible for the actions of their guests (including financial responsibility for damages)
at all times. Residents should inform their guests of University Housing policies and make sure they
adhere to them. A guest is defined as anyone (friend or family member) who is not an assigned resident
of the living unit they are visiting and is voluntarily allowed admittance by a contracted resident of that
living unit.

In Bluff, Prairie, Woodland, and Evergreen Halls, guests must be signed in at the front desk and must be
escorted by their host at all times while in the living areas of University Housing. Guests include friends,
parents, and relatives. All guests high school age and above must leave a valid picture I.D. Guests in
Cougar Village do not need to be registered at the Commons.

A guest may not use a resident’s key or Cougar Card. Failure to properly register and/or escort visitors
may result in loss of hosting privileges. Guests who violate University Housing policies may be asked to
leave at any time. In all University Housing facilities, guests who are not registered overnight guests
must leave by 2:00 a.m.

Overnight Guests

An overnight guest is defined as an individual who is visiting in any living unit past 2:00 a.m. For those
individuals living in residences halls, any individual living in the same hall that does not reside in the
room is considered an overnight guest. In Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls the appropriate paperwork
must be submitted to host an overnight guest.

In order to have an overnight guest approved in Bluff, Prairie, and Woodland Halls, you must obtain a
“Residence Hall Overnight Guest Registration” form from your front desk. The form must be completed
and submitted either upon or prior to your guest(s) arrival on campus. You will need your roommate’s
signature on the “Residence Hall Overnight Guest Registration” form. Please note, these
signatures are verified by the staff and forgery of your roommate(s) signature constitutes a violation of
the overnight guest policy and will result in disciplinary action.

Thirty days after the beginning of each semester, you and your roommate may complete the Residence
Hall Overnight Guest Registration Waiver form. This is an optional form that allows you to host an
overnight guest without your roommate signing the Residence Hall Overnight Guest Registration form
for each overnight guest. At any point during the semester, roommates can agree to discontinue the
waiver and return to approving overnight guests for each occurrence. Roommates will need to
complete a new waiver at the beginning of each semester. All other guest and overnight guest policies
still apply.

In all University Housing facilities, a maximum of (2) two guests may be approved for the same night,
with no more than two single guests in a single living unit per night. Guests will not be able to stay any
more than three nights. If a guest stays for three consecutive nights, a time period of no less than seven
days, starting from the last day the guest was registered, must elapse before that same individual may
be registered as an overnight guest again. Residents are responsible for any damages or conflicts
caused by their guests. When residence hall guests arrive, their hosts are required to sign them in at the
front desk. Overnight parking passes may also be requested on this form and may be picked up at your

SIUE Housing Living Guide 36

area front desk upon the guest’s arrival.

Unauthorized Guests

All residents of a living unit are subject to discipline if unauthorized guests are discovered by University
Housing staff. All overnight guests are considered unauthorized unless the resident makes a written
request that is signed by his/her roommate for approval to the Community Director.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 37

Community Standards
Resident Rights

As a member of the University Housing community, you are entitled to the right to:

• Read and study without interference, unreasonable noise or other distractions;

• Sleep without undue disturbance;
• Have personal privacy within your living unit;
• Live in a clean and sanitary environment;
• Host guests, but with the understanding that the guest will honor other residents’ rights;
• Address grievances to University Housing staff;
• Be free of fear from intimidation and physical or emotional harm.

Resident Responsibilities

Upon moving into University Housing, residents are responsible for:

• Knowing and adhering to the rules and regulations of the University and University Housing as
stated in this Living Guide and the Terms and Conditions of your contract;
• Maintaining and controlling their living unit and the activities that occur within;
• Making sure their guests understand and follow the policies of University Housing;
• Responding in a timely manner to requests for information or meetings with the University
Housing staff;
• Interacting with all University Housing staff in a courteous and respectful manner;
• Respecting their roommate(s)’ belongings;
• Regulating the behavior of their children (See Child Behavior Guidelines, page 18.)

Bicycles

Residence Halls

Bicycles may not be stored inside the residence halls. They must be locked to bike racks located near
the buildings. Bikes locked to lampposts, benches, or trees will be removed.

Cougar Village

Bicycles may not be stored in breezeways or hallways. Bicycles stored outside must be locked to one of
the bike racks located throughout the complex. Bikes locked to lampposts, air conditioning units,
benches, trees, or stored in breezeways or hallways will be removed. Bicycle racks are cleared on an
annual basis. Abandoned bikes are disposed of as abandoned property as noted below.

Bicycles and personal property improperly stored in stairwells and breezeways will be removed without
notice and held for two weeks by University Housing Facilities Management. If items are reclaimed, a
$25.00 charge will be issued at the time of reclamation. Abandoned property will be donated to charity
or disposed of as state property through appropriate procurement protocol.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 38

Bus Service

Bus Stops

Cougar Village bus stops include: (before 7:20pm) Shelter in front of Bldg. 519, Lot 4F, shelter adjacent
to Bldg. 411, Cougar Lake Drive adjacent to Bldg. 406 and (after 7:20pm) shelter in front of Bldg. 519,
Bldg. 526, Lot 4F, shelter adjacent to Bldg. 411, Cougar Lake Drive adjacent to Bldg. 406. Buses will drop
off and pick up on the Hairpin Drive in front of Peck Hall.

Fares

Passengers traveling between Cougar Village and the central core of campus travel at no cost.
Passengers traveling to Edwardsville or Glen Carbon on MCT must pay the bus fare.

Off-Campus Bus Service

MCT routes can be accessed at the Hairpin Drive or by obtaining a transfer at other points. Call Madison
County Transit at (618) 931-7433 or www.mct.org for more information on routes.

On-Campus Bus Service

Bus service on the SIUE campus is available free of charge by utilizing Madison Country Transit (MCT).
Buses run from central campus to Cougar Village and vice versa frequently throughout the day. Times
for Saturday bus service vary slightly from the weekday service. Service to Evergreen Hall, Bluff Hall,
Student Fitness Center, and Early Childhood Center is provided with a weekday hourly bus route that
leaves from Cougar Village. Please check the MCT bus schedule for stop times. Detailed bus schedules
are available at the University Center Information Desk, Commons Building, and the front desks of Bluff,
Prairie, Woodland, and Evergreen Halls or at www.mct.org.

Cable Television/Stereo Wires

In order to make your living environment more enjoyable, University Housing offers cable television in
each living unit. Expanded basic cable is included in your contract payment. To receive premium
channels, contact Charter Communications at 1-888-438-2427.

Wires for televisions and stereos should not be attached to walls, molding, or door frames. This
damages University property and repairs will be charged to the resident(s) responsible. Wires should
not be laid in doorways, as this is a safety hazard.

Cable Repairs

If you are having problems with your cable service, submit a Maintenance Request to University Housing
Facilities Management via www.siue.edu/housing.

UHTV-21

Residents using cable service receive UHTV-21, the University Housing cable access channel. UHTV-21

SIUE Housing Living Guide 39

broadcasts free movies, University information, educational videos, and student productions. Movie
listings may be found on the University Housing web site at www.siue.edu/housing. Movie requests
may be submitted from the UHTV page on the University Housing web site.

Problems with UHTV-21

If you experience a problem with UHTV-21, please try troubleshooting the problem to see if you can fix
it before you submit a Maintenance Request with your concern.

Troubleshooting

• Make sure your cable wires are of good quality and hooked squarely and tight against the wall
and on the television.
• Unhook video game players before watching UHTV-21.
• Run your television through your VCR, which has its own tuner.
• Try unhooking your TV from your VCR to see if that makes a difference in your picture.
• Purchase a “ghost buster” from an electrical supply store. This will shield your cable coupling
more completely.
• If you are only receiving up to channel 13, please check your programming and make sure your
television is set to “cable” and not “antenna”.
• Outlets are meant for one television. If you are using a splitter and experiencing fuzzy channels,
try unhooking your splitter and attach the cable from the wall directly into your television.

After troubleshooting, if you are still having problems with UHTV-21, please place a Maintenance
Request via www.siue.edu/housing. Give complete information, including your name, location, phone
number, and availability for repairs to be made

Child Behavior Guidelines for Families

Cougar Village is a living and learning environment composed of people of all ages. The University
Housing staff wants each resident to enjoy a minimum of restriction in his/her personal life; however, to
help ensure the safety of children (non-students, under 18 years of age, residing in Cougar Village family
apartments) and to ensure that apartment living is satisfying for the entire community, the following
guidelines have been developed:

1. Parents are responsible for the supervision of their children at all times. Children under 10 must
be supervised by an adult at all times and may not be issued a lock out key at any time.
2. Play which is disturbing to residents is prohibited within reason after 9:00 p.m. or anytime
during finals week.
3. Children who have not completed the 5th grade are not permitted to play outside of their
apartments after the exterior lights come on unless accompanied by an adult.
4. Playing in hallways is prohibited.
5. The use of sports equipment (i.e., balls, bats, etc.) is permitted only on baseball fields and in
open areas, away from all buildings.
6. The use of weapons and toys capable of inflicting bodily harm is prohibited (i.e., knives, BB guns,
darts, bow and arrows, squirt guns containing anything, pistols, sling shots, etc.)
7. Any damage to University property (i.e., air conditioners, playground equipment, mailboxes,

SIUE Housing Living Guide 40

 building walls, etc.) caused by children will be charged to the resident parent.
8. Children are not permitted to play in or near garbage dumpsters or air conditioning units.
9. Children are not allowed to climb trees or hang on the limbs.
10. Parents are responsible for cleaning all trash littered by their children. This includes trash left on
the grounds of Cougar Village or in Cougar Lake.
11. Parents must accompany all children under age 10 to University Housing programs unless
otherwise specified by University Housing staff or program fliers.
12. Cougar Village is state property. All state laws apply.

Enforcement

While primary responsibility for supervision of a child rests with the parent or guardian, members of the
community also share responsibility for maintaining a safe, harmonious environment. Should a child be
seen violating the “Child Behavior Guidelines,” the behavior in question (unless warranting official
intervention) should be brought to the attention of the child and his/her parent or guardian and a report
should be made to University Housing staff. Depending on the severity of the case, disciplinary action
may be taken against the contracted parent/guardian.

Cleaning Contracts

Cleaning contracts will be delivered to all single student living units. Roommates are required to discuss
and agree upon an equal division of labor regarding cleaning responsibilities. Each roommate will sign
his/her name next to the items which he/she has agreed to clean. The Community Director or Resident
Assistant will refer to the cleaning contracts if the residents fail to adhere to the contract.

The cleaning contract should identify the individual responsible for the cleaning deficiencies. Those
individuals responsible for not cleaning items listed in a failed cleaning inspection report will be
responsible for correcting the deficiencies. Unsigned contracts signify that all roommates are
responsible for the consequences.

If your living unit fails to pass the safety inspection, a notice will be left on your dining room table or a
desk closest to the door. Contact your Resident Assistant and 48 hours will be allotted for correcting the
deficiencies.

When a resident(s) fails to correct the deficiencies in 48 hours, he/she is subject to three unannounced
inspections in one week. Continual failure to meet safety and cleaning standards may result in
disciplinary action.

Cleaning Guidelines

Cleaning Contracts may be issued by your Community Director or Resident Assistant to those residents
not maintaining a clean and sanitary living unit. A probationary period will be established by your
Community Director and cleaning checks will be conducted at random during the probation period.
Failure to maintain a clean and sanitary living unit after a Cleaning Contract has been issued may result
in termination of residency.

Residents are responsible for maintaining living units in a consistently clean and sanitary condition. The

SIUE Housing Living Guide 41

following standards apply:

1. Living units must be kept clean and free of dirt. Properly dispose of trash and garbage in
dumpsters/trash rooms.
2. All roommates will share the cleaning duties equally in the common living area, unless all are
mutually agreeable to another arrangement.
3. All walks, hallways, patios, grounds, and balconies within ten feet of a resident’s apartment
must be kept clean and clear of litter and debris.
4. Halls, lounges, kitchenettes, stoves, and microwaves in residence halls must be kept clean and
clear of litter and debris.
5. Trash and/or garbage must be placed either in the garbage receptacle within the apartment or
in the dumpsters provided in each area near the apartments and in each trash room on each
residence hall floor.
6. All furnishings, fixtures, walls, ceilings, and living unit surfaces are to be kept clean and free of
damage.

Damages

The following information will help you avoid damage charges:

1. Residents are responsible for the care of their living unit and of all furniture, equipment, and
attachments within it.

2. All breakage, damage, and the need for general maintenance and repairs must be reported to
University Housing Facilities Management. Residents should submit a Maintenance Request via
www.siue.edu/housing. The University will make all such repairs with charges assessed to the
resident(s) responsible for the damages.

3. Misuse of Furniture - Residents may not alter University furniture in their living unit beyond its
intended set-up methods (i.e. - using cinder blocks, etc.). Mattresses and bed springs must
remain on their respective frames. In addition, dressers, desks, and bed ends (except to bunk
beds) may not be stacked in any way due to safety considerations. All University furniture
should remain in the living unit. Persons found in violation of this policy may face disciplinary
action.

4. Items for which damage charges are usually assessed are:

• Broken Cougar Village thermostats

• Holes caused by decorating; residents are responsible for damages resulting from
unapproved decoration
• Dirty living units not meeting standards as specified by the check out list
• Scarred or broken furniture, fixtures, and equipment, including removal of doors from
bedroom closets
• Burns to University furniture and other damage caused by smoking in the living unit
including the smell of smoke.
• Cost of repairs or replacement resulting from accidental or willful damage
• Excessive damage to walls, wood and metal surfaces, sink counter tops, floors, and any

SIUE Housing Living Guide 42

 University property
• All damage caused by vehicles driven through grass or within the clusters
• Any damage caused by guests

5. Residents are responsible for damages if they undertake repairs of any nature. Residents
tampering with items that require repair by University Housing Facilities Management can be
charged for resulting damages. The physical condition of the living unit should not be altered.
Additional violations of maintenance policies and regulations could result in the termination of
residency.

NOTICE: The cost of repairs is often very high with hourly rates being paid at the state prevailing rate.
Overtime and after hours wages range from time and a half or double time dependent upon repair.
Parts are also very costly because they usually involve special ordering in small quantities.

Cleaning Inspection Standards

Cleaning inspections are conducted by Resident Assistants 1-2 times per semester and twice in the
summer. The purpose of this inspection is to check the conditions relative to standards required by
University Housing.

Residents will receive advance notice from their Community Director or Resident Assistant informing
them when this inspection will take place as well as guidelines for the inspection.

RAs will open 500 side Cougar Village apartment furnace closet doors in advance of a cleaning
inspection. Residents will be notified of this entry date.

Bathroom

• Clean bathtub/shower, tiles inside and outside the shower, and shower curtain.
• Clean the toilet inside and out, the bottom of the basin, and around the floor.
• Clean the sink and counter, medicine cabinet, and all mirrors.
• Empty the trash and mop the floor.

Bedroom / Living Unit

• Empty trash and clean floors.

• Keep the bedroom and living area neat and orderly.

Dining Room and Living Room (CV and EH)

• Dust all furniture and mop all floors including the hallway.
• Sweep or vacuum rugs/carpet.
• Clean walls with a non-abrasive cleanser and a soft towel.

Furnace Closet (CV)

• Wipe down furnace and walls to eliminate dust. Your RA will be around in ample time to open
the door on the 500 side.
• Dust off the door to the furnace closet, inside and out, and sweep the floor.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 43

 • Do not use this area for storage (400 side).

General Housekeeping

• All trash should be removed from the living unit, balcony or patio, and from around the living
unit, including under the stairwell and in the breezeway. Residents will be charged a minimum
of $25 per bag for trash removed and/or pick up of excessive trash outside of the living unit.
• Trash cannot be stored in the building. (CV)
• Electrical outlets are fire hazards if left overloaded.
• Extension cords or speaker wires should not be placed across traffic areas or under rugs.
• There should be no decorations hanging from the ceiling, such as nets or paper.
• Dressers, desks, and bed ends (except to bunk beds) may not be stacked in any way due to
safety considerations.
• Residents are responsible for items in the storage closets (CV).
• Residents are responsible for reporting missing or discharged fire extinguishers.
• The smoke system is centrally monitored. Do not attempt to alter or test the equipment. Call
University Housing Facilities Management (x3626) if the smoke system is malfunctioning or
University Police Department if it is after hours, at 650-3324.

Kitchen (CV and EH)

• Clean entire stove inside and out, top burners, broiler, oven, and fan filter.
• Do NOT place aluminum foil under drip pans or on the bottom of the stove. This is a serious fire
hazard!
• Clean the inside and outside of refrigerator.
• Pull out stove, refrigerator, and moveable counter and thoroughly clean behind and under
them.
• Wash all dishes and take out all trash.
• Clean off all counter tops, including breakfast bar.
• Make sure the fire extinguisher is charged by checking the gauge. If it is not, report it to
University Housing Facilities Management.
• Clean floors, cabinets, walls, and other surfaces.

Clogged Drains

Never pour grease or other thickening substances into a lounge, kitchen, or bathroom drain. Do not
pour grease outside of buildings. The best way to discard of old grease/oil is to place in a sealed
container and discard in the trash. You can prevent clogging in your kitchen sink by filling both sinks
with hot water once a week and draining them at the same time. Never pour drain cleaner into the
drains. Instead, use a plunger to unclog drains. Plungers are available for check out from the Commons
Building or any Residence Hall front desk. If plunging does not resolve the problem, please submit a
Maintenance Request via www.siue.edu/housing.

Common Area Furniture

Lounge and other common area furniture is for the enjoyment of all residents. Residents found with
common area furniture in their living units will be charged for removal and subject to disciplinary action.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 44

Community Property

Community properties owned by University Housing such as pushcarts, shopping baskets, and laundry
carts have been specifically placed in each community. The use of these items should be considered a
privilege and as such should not be misused or mistreated in any way, shape, or form. After an
individual is done using such an item they are required to return it back to the appropriate storage area.
The practice of leaving these items in the hallway or on walking paths presents a danger to others living
in the community in the event of an emergency and also goes against the idea of shared community
property for the benefit of all the residents residing within that area. The storage of such property in
one’s apartment or room is also strictly prohibited. In the event a resident is found responsible for
creating an unsafe situation by leaving a pushcart, laundry cart, or shopping cart in the hallway or
walking path, or by storing such an item in their room, appropriate disciplinary action will follow.

Commons Building

The Commons Building is a gathering place for residents of Cougar Village. It houses staff offices, mail
boxes, information desk, computer lab, a lounge with a large screen television, laundry facilities,
meeting rooms, and the Commons Grill snack bar & convenience store. Most areas may be reserved for
meetings, study, or group activities. Space reservation forms are available at the Commons Building
front desk. During the hours the Commons Building is closed, the phone is answered by a message
system and you may leave a non-emergency message for the University Housing staff.

Commons Computer Lab

The Commons Computer Lab opens when the building opens and closes one hour before the building
closes. The lab is operated by Academic Computing. Problems with computers or printers should be
directed to x5500.

Computers have internet access and are equipped with word processing and spreadsheet programs. Do
not attempt to add programs to the computers or alter the system in any way. Academics have priority
over games or Internet. When the lab is full, those not doing class work must vacate the computer
terminal when asked to do so by a student who needs to complete a class assignment.

Food and drink are not allowed in the computer lab. Children using the computer lab MUST be
accompanied by an adult.

Commons Grill Snack Bar & Convenience Store

The Commons Grill is located on the lower level of the Commons Building and is open Fall and Spring
Semesters: Monday - Friday 11:00am - 11:00pm, Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm - 6:00pm. A wide variety of
grill and specialty items are featured, as well as a selection of necessities for student use. Special orders
are accepted. Call x2959. Meal plans may be used at the Commons Grill.

Roommate Agreement

Chances are you have never shared a living space with someone else or with the person you are now
living with. Being a good roommate and your overall University Housing experience will depend upon

SIUE Housing Living Guide 45

your ability to listen, communicate, and compromise. You and your roommate will be expected to
complete a Roommate Agreement the first week of residency. Your RA can help facilitate this
Agreement and provide guidance.

Community Agreements

In order to make the on-campus living experience positive for all students, members of each community
will be expected to participate in the creation of a Community Agreement. Very similar to a Roommate
Agreement, a Community Agreement is a document created by a wing or apartment building that
outlines the expectations and goals that the community wishes to either adhere to or achieve
throughout the academic year. The purpose of the document is to facilitate the creation of a healthy,
safe, fun, and academically successful community. The RA helps facilitate the Community Agreement
process and a copy of the completed Community Agreement will be posted in every community.

A community agreement does not change policy; the Living Guide contains all official policies for
University housing. However, Housing policies have been changed in the past as a result of student
activism through Area Council and the Residence Housing Association (RHA).

Community Funds

Members of every Housing community have access to funds to use to plan events and activities. This
money is available on a first come, first serve basis. Community Funds exist to promote and support
community development and interaction between residents. Residents (not staff members) pick the
activity and plan/facilitate the event. Residence Life staff are available for guidance on how to utilize
Community Funds, but responsibility for organizing and presenting the activity belongs to the
residents. Groups of residents can request up to $200 per semester. Funds are available on a first come,
first serve basis. The petitioning paperwork is available online at www.siue.edu/housing under
forms. All paperwork must be completed at least one week prior to the planned event.

Decorating and Painting

To avoid excessive damage and repair costs, which would cause future rents to increase, you are
expected to comply with the following guidelines or to pay for the repairs necessitated by non-
compliance.

Decorating Guidelines

1. All material used as wall decoration cannot cover more than 1/3 of a wall.

2. If you want to hang anything on the wall, with the exception of the kitchen and bathroom walls,
use tacks, push pins, or small nails on a limited basis. Do not use tacks on wooden surfaces!
Residents will be charged for repairs from excessive use of tacks, push pins, nail damage, and
any clean-up associated with using adhesive tape from tape, glow stars, and other adhesive
items attached to painted surfaces.

3. The kitchens and bathrooms at Cougar Village apartments have been painted with enamel. You
may not paint, puncture, or otherwise mutilate the walls. Puncture marks will cause this paint to

SIUE Housing Living Guide 46

 peel.

4. Curtain rods/blinds will not support the weight of hanging plants.

5. The use of tape, nails, and adhesives is prohibited on living unit doors.

6. Do not use tape on any painted surfaces.

7. Dart boards are not allowed on any wall or door in the living units or in the hallways.

8. Residents should contact their Community Director or Assistant Community Director before
decoration or personalizing is done. Decorating which is not approved may result in charges to
restore the living unit to its original condition. The request for approval must be in writing and
will be kept in the resident’s file.

9. Nets, flags, and/or other items may not be hung from the ceiling.

10. University furniture may not be removed from living units. Personal furniture may be placed in
living units with the consent of all the residents of the unit.

11. University property (i.e., outside lamp globes or University traffic signs), other than property of
University Housing is not allowed in a living unit. Residents in possession of such material will
have items confiscated and may receive fines and/or disciplinary action.

12. Venetian or mini blinds may not be installed in Cougar Village. The hardware used to hang the
blinds damages the walls.

13. Nothing may be hung on the outside of windows, building exteriors, or on the balconies.

14. Do not remove curtains or change curtain hardware.

15. Windows must be kept clear of tape, stickers, posters, and signs that face outward.

16. University lighting fixtures are not to be altered or substituted for hardwired fixtures such as
ceiling fans.

17. Constructions such as panels, dividers, lofts, wall-mounted shelves, and non-university bunks
are not permitted.

Holiday Decorating Safety Regulations

1. Only artificial Christmas trees shall be permitted in living units. No lights may be used on
aluminum trees since vibrations cut through the wiring insulation and cause the tree to become
completely electrified.

2. No lights are permitted around the outside of doors, windows, or balconies/patios, as the power
line passing through the door or window frame to an outlet could short the power.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 47

3. All decorations used on the inside of any University Housing building must be flameproof or
made from material that is flame retardant.

4. “Christmas Snow” or any decorations such as this may not be used on University property. This
includes windows, doors, walls, brick, and siding. This type of decoration has a tendency to be
hard to remove and does not come off completely, leaving a stain.

Painting/Adhesive Papers

Residents are NOT allowed to paint their living units. Wallpapering, paneling, contact paper (including
adhesive shelf liners), or any other type of adhesive materials (such as wallpaper borders) are not
permitted on any wall or other surface within the living unit.

Front Desks

Front desks at the Cougar Village Commons Building, Bluff, Prairie, Woodland, and Evergreen Halls are
staffed by student workers who answer the phone, distribute keys, provide information, and are
responsible for the management and security of the facility.

Items Left Outside of Storage Closets and in Hallways/Breezeways

Bicycles and other personal property left outside or improperly stored in the storage closets on the
Cougar Village 500 side, in any hallway, breezeway, or stairwell will be removed without notice and held
for two weeks by University Housing Facilities Management. These items present a fire hazard in the
storage areas due to the electrical equipment housed there and a safety hazard in hallways, breezeways
and stairwells. If items are reclaimed, a $25.00 charge will be issued at the time of reclamation.
Abandoned property will be donated to charity.

Laundry Facilities

Laundry facilities are available at Cougar Village and in each residence hall. Facilities are located on the
ground floor of the south wing of Bluff Hall, the east wing of Prairie Hall, and the west wing of Woodland
Hall. The Evergreen Hall laundry room is located on the second floor of the south wing. Facilities in the
residence halls are open 24 hours. At Cougar Village, washers and driers are located in the Commons
Building and in the basement of buildings 405 & 429. The 500 side laundry room at the Commons closes
one hour earlier than the building closing time. The facilities on the 400 side are open 24 hours a day.

Washers are $1.00 and dryers are $1.25 per load. Depending on the load size, $1.25 should dry one load
of laundry. A debit account may be established at the Service Center or at any of the CSVT machines in
the laundry rooms for use of payment from the Cougar Card. Refunds and service requests for laundry
machines must be requested by calling Jetz Laundry Equipment Company at (800) 530-5726. Please
make sure to report the machine number. Monies placed in the CVST machines, but not added to your
Cougar Card, should be reported to your building or Commons secretary. A receipt of your transaction is
helpful but not mandatory.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 48

Lounges

Lounges must be kept clean by the residents of the floor. University Housing Facilities Management will
vacuum the floors and empty the trash can. Cleanliness of the microwaves and stoves/ovens (if
applicable) is the responsibility of residents. Lounges are a privilege and should be treated as such. If
the lounges or lounge furnishings are misused or mistreated, they will be closed and locked. Lounge
furniture is to be left in the lounges for all residents to enjoy. Residents who are found to have lounge
furniture in their rooms will be charged for the removal and will be subjected to disciplinary sanctions.

Package Delivery & Postal Service

You will be notified with a Postal Service yellow slip in your mailbox whenever a package arrives for you.
You must present the slip and some form of identification to receive your package.

Residence Halls

Packages delivered to the residence halls will be available for pick up at the respective front desk. In
order to pick up your packages, you must present your Postal Service yellow slip and identification at the
front desk. You must also sign the package log located at the front desk acknowledging that you picked
up your package. Packages delivered by other services such as UPS will be accepted for students in the
residence halls and the resident will be notified to pick up the package.

Cougar Village

Packages delivered by the U.S. Postal Service for both the 400 and 500 side of Cougar Village are
available at the Commons mail room from 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday – Friday and 11:00 a.m. – 1:00
p.m. Saturday. In order to pick up your packages, you must present your Postal Service yellow slip and
identification at the mailroom. Packages delivered by other services such as UPS will be available at the
Commons mail room, after attempted delivery at the apartment It is the responsibility of residents to
track the delivery of these packages for notification for pickup.

Mailboxes for residents of Cougar Village are located on the lower level of the Commons Building. The
mailboxes are numbered by apartment number and are opened with your apartment key.

Sidewalk Policy - Cougar Village

Sidewalks are closed for all normal traffic. Sidewalks can be used for vehicles or for moving in or out of
apartments if the following guidelines are followed:

 Sidewalk access is allowed during check-in/out and during Winter Break only.
• Any vehicle parked on the grounds or sidewalk may be charged for damages and towing. All
vehicles must stay on the wide service roads.
• Unauthorized vehicles blocking service drives and entrances will receive a ticket and be towed
by SIUE Police Department.
 All vehicles must use the flashers and must not exceed 5 miles per hour when traveling on the
sidewalks.
• All vehicles are limited to 15 minutes on the sidewalks during move-in and move-out.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 49

Emergency access gates have been installed on the 400 side of Cougar Village. Residents may request
access from the Community Director or designee at Cougar Village during move-in, move-out or for
space changes. Gate cards will be checked out for a maximum of two hours per apartment. Any resident
found to be in violation of these procedures will face disciplinary action from University Housing, and
possible ticketing and towing by the SIUPD.

Snack, Soda, and Ice Machines

Snack and soda machines are located on the first floor of the Commons Building and on the main level
and each floor landing of the residence halls. Refunds for snack and soda machines are available only at
Union Station in the University Center. Ice machines are located in each residence hall laundry room.

Snow Removal

The University Housing Facilities Management staff will make every attempt to remove snow and ice
from the Cougar Village complex and Residence Hall areas as efficiently and effectively as possible.

The primary concern when inclement weather occurs is to keep emergency lanes and main arteries of
University Housing facilities open. The next priority is to make sure that the Commons Building,
Woodland/Prairie/Evergreen Hall north walkways, and the Bluff Hall east walkway to the central campus
are accessible. Pathways to apartments of students with physical disabilities are also made accessible.
Following this, one sidewalk entrance to each building at Cougar Village (preferably on the courtyard
side) and other residence hall walkways will be cleared so that residents have access to parking lots.
Remaining parking lots and sidewalks at Cougar Village will then be cleared. In the event of ice, salt will
be spread in parking lot areas and ice melt will be placed on sidewalks. Please call University Housing
Facilities Management at x3626 if ice or snow accumulation is endangering residents.

Solicitation/Resident Businesses

Off-campus vendors are not allowed to solicit business in University Housing. Residents should call
University Police when a vendor tries to sell items or distribute materials on University property.
Residents may not conduct businesses from their residences. These businesses include advertised
services such as nail design and hair styling where money is exchanged. Demonstrations, such as Mary
Kay or Avon, may be conducted in University Housing as long as no orders are taken on the premises.

Telephone System

An active telephone jack is installed in each living unit. This can be used to call campus numbers and
other living units by merely dialing the last four digits. Dial “9” for an outside line.

All calls off-campus must be made with a calling card. You must have a Student Telephone Account
Number (STAN) from SIUE Telecommunication Services, a calling card from any long distance company,
or call collect to make local and long distance calls. Collect calls cannot be accepted on living unit
phones.

Personal Telephone Lines (PTLs) are available to all residents for an extra charge. Information on STANs
or PTLs is available during fall check-in or by calling Telecommunication Services at (618) 650-3373.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 50

If you are having trouble with your telephone, please check the following items before calling
Telecommunication Services:

• Check to make sure the telephone cord is not cut or exposed in any way.
• Make sure your telephone cord is plugged in properly and that it is not plugged into the
computer data jack. Data jacks are the bottom jack.
• Try a cord from another phone to determine if the cord is causing the problem.
• If the phone fails to work, try plugging the phone into a different phone jack.

Telephone line repairs must be reported to Telecommunication Services. Please provide your telephone
number, apartment/room number, and the nature of the problem. Hours for this office are 8:00am -
4:30pm, Monday through Friday. For more information on using the residential telephone system in
University Housing, please refer to the “Guide to University Housing Telephone Services” brochure
available at the Cougar Village Commons or any residence hall front desk. You may also visit their web
site at www.siue.edu/telecom.

Thermostat Damage

Damaging or trying to alter thermostats or residence hall temperature control units will result in damage
charges and disciplinary action against the residents of a living unit. Any attempt to “trick” the
thermostat by exposing it to abnormal heat or cold will also be cause for disciplinary action.

Temperature Control

Residence Halls

Each residence hall is on one heating and cooling system, which means that you will only have heat or
air conditioning at any one time. The switch from heat to A/C is done as the weather dictates. On the
heating and cooling units in each living unit, there is a warmer and cooler dial and a fan speed switch.

Cougar Village

Air conditioners for Cougar Village apartments cannot be used before May or after October. In an effort
to conserve energy, preset thermostats are installed in all apartments. These thermostats range from
68 to 74 degrees. Do not attempt to turn thermostats beyond the pre-adjusted limits. Charges will
result if these thermostats are damaged in an effort to go beyond the established limits or alter the
operation of the thermostats. Do not sit or place personal items on the condensing units located
outside the apartment buildings.

Toilets

Do not attempt to flush paper towels, cotton swabs, personal hygiene products, or anything plastic
down the toilet. Plungers are available at the front desks of the residence halls and at the Commons
Desk. All bubbling or gurgling toilets should be referred to UHFM (x3626) as soon as possible. After 3:30
p.m. the resident should contact your RA immediately. If your RA is unavailable contact the University
Police Department at (618) 650-3324. If a toilet becomes clogged, the use of water anywhere in the
living unit should be discontinued until the toilet is unclogged. This may prevent possible flooding.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 51

Trash Containers/Trash Disposal

Trash containers in your living unit should not exceed 10 gallons in size. Containers larger than this allow
trash to accumulate to an unreasonable amount, which rises cleaning and health concerns.

Trash must be secured in plastic bags and placed in residence hall trash carts or Cougar Village
dumpsters. Trash rooms are located on each floor in the residence halls. For your convenience, trash
receptacles are located in the parking lots near buildings 404, 406, 416, 421, 422, 426, 505, 508, 512,
513, 515, 520, 527, and 531 at Cougar Village. Trash should not be left in hallways, breezeways,
stairways, public trash barrels, recycling containers, or anywhere on the grounds of University Housing.
Residents disposing of items improperly will be charged $25 per bag for its removal and will be subject
to discipline.

Washers and Dryers

Washers and dryers are not permitted in the living units. Laundry facilities are available in all residence
halls, the Cougar Village Commons Building, and in buildings 405 & 429 of Cougar Village (see page 38).

Windows

Windows with window safety stops must be intact at all times. Hanging, dropping or throwing anything
from an open window, including using the window for entry or exit purposes, will result in disciplinary
action. Windows must be kept clear of tape, stickers, posters, and signs that face outward. Windows
should remain closed if the heating or cooling system is running in your living unit.

Window Screens

Leave all screens attached to your windows. If staff members observe an unfastened screen, they will
reinstall it and residents may be charged. If the screen is missing or damaged, staff members will
request a new screen and the residents will be charged for the replacement.

SIUE Housing Living Guide 52