Access to LCC campus may be limited

By Sophia Potter
Staff Writer

Swift policy changes are causing strong backlash on LCC’s downtown campus.

According to a bulletin received by staff: “Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, LCC will restrict use of its buildings to current students and employees only. Alumni and retirees holding LCC StarCards will no longer be able to access our Fitness Centers, Weight Room, Library, or other facilities.”

LCC will also no longer issue new alumni or retiree cards.

The decision comes as a consequence of strengthening security measures at LCC. Restricting access to buildings at specific times was one of the first steps Michigan State University took in the wake of the tragic shooting that took place there in Feb. 2023.

Right as the semester began, fliers could be found across LCC’s campus raising awareness for the decision and suggesting it may be in violation of the Michigan Open Meetings Act.

According to the fliers, the OMA exists, “to require certain meetings of certain public bodies to be open to the public; to require notice and the keeping of minutes of meetings; to provide for enforcement; to provide for invalidation of governmental decisions under certain circumstances; to provide penalties; and to repeal certain acts and parts of acts,” according to Michigan Legislature, and can be read in full here.

Many students are frustrated by the immediacy and lack of community input in the decision, which they feel is in stark contrast with the welcoming atmosphere at LCC.

An anonymous student that helped organize peaceful protests on campus earlier this month said their biggest concern is “that this new policy will destroy communities, such as clubs, and the welcoming environment that LCC provides.”

“I have made many friends through club settings, and having that taken away from me when I graduate hurts,” the student said. “It also hurts that I won't be able to help the club I'm a part of grow more after I'm gone.”

Students are encouraged to voice their opinions on the matter either in person or virtually at the next LCC Board of Trustees meeting Monday, Sept. 16 at 6 p.m. at the Administration Building, located at 610 N. Capitol Ave. on LCC’s main campus.

Anyone who hopes to make a public comment at the board meeting must register here before noon on the Sept. 16. Any questions regarding this decision can also be sent to PR@star.lcc.edu.