THE UNION'S BURDEN.

It is highly imperative that serious attention be given to the finances of the Union. The report of the treasurer for the period ending February 28 shows a deficit of approximately $4,000. Two things should be noted in regard to this loss. In the first place, it covers only half the year; the deficit for the entire year will probably reach at least $6,000. And secondly, this net loss is kept at so low a figure only by foregoing many needed repairs and improvements in the service.

The Union not only faces a constant deficit, but it is obliged from lack of funds to continue in a building which has not been decently overhauled since its foundation. The floors and stairs are worn and uneven; the upholstering and carpets are ragged and threadbare; new painting and finishing is essential to restore the Union to anything like its original attractiveness. And the inadequacy and inefficiency of the service is notorious.

Yet in face of all these unsatisfied needs the treasury of the Union is really facing exhaustion. Originally there was an endowment created by life memberships, which amounted to about $30,000; and in addition a gift of $10,000 from the class of '78, which is to be used for special purposes, one-third going to the library. The accumulated income raised the total to about $60,000; but the ever-increasing deficits which have existed since 1910 have consumed this increment, leaving now only $30,000 which is unrestricted. To pay this year's deficit the original principle will have to be attacked. Last year the deficit was over $9,000. Even if future deficits do not exceed the probable figure for this year, the endowment will be exhausted in about eight years; and the Union will be quite deteriorated if not obsolescent.

In the face of these conditions the Union pays taxes which for last year amounted to $5,302.11, and rent to the University for the land on which the building stands of $1,260. This is an annual expense of at least $6,562.11. Under present circumstances it may be impossible for the University to forego this rental charge. But why should the Union be the only College building which has to pay taxes? It is not a private club, but the property of the entire University which it serves; and it is therefore entitled to the exemption which other such property enjoys.

If this tax burden were removed, more than $5,000 would be saved annually to the Union; and although its problems go far beyond this, at least a very pressing financial situation would be relieved. This is a matter for the University and the Union to take up at once.