The Village Handbook
The Village at West Campus Apartment HandbookINTRODUCTION
Welcome, and congratulations on your decision to live in The Village Apartments. Geared toward enhancing the independent living experience, The Village is operated by Georgia Collage & State University and, unlike other apartment complexes in town, offers housing exclusively to GCSU. The Village provides just the right mixture of the freedom of apartment living and the security of university housing, and provides an exciting alternative to our traditional residence hall experience.
To help ensure that you will have a rewarding and enjoyable experience as a member of our apartment community, it is essential that you review the information contained in the University Student Handbook, The Village Handbook and the The Village Contract Agreement, and make wise decisions regarding your lifestyle and how you will conduct yourself. Policies and procedures exist to help ensure the safety, security, and rights of all members of the community. Should you choose to conduct yourself contrary to the established policies and behavioral standards, you can expect to be confronted and held accountable for your actions.
THE VILLAGE COMMUNITY [back to top]
Georgia College & State University and the Department of University Housing are well aware of and sensitive to your rights and freedoms. In an attempt to ensure that your rights and freedoms are protected, the university has clearly outlined a set of basic principles or guidelines for student conduct and behavior. As a resident student at Georgia College & State University, you have the potential for governing yourself. At all times, your behavior and conduct should never be such as to impair or prevent the university from accomplishing or making progress towards its established educational goals.
Therefore, to assist you in making appropriate choices, the university has designed a set of general regulations derived from laws or statutes of our society. Quite simply, it is your responsibility to know and abide by these general guidelines and/or regulations. The Georgia College & State University general regulations, which are stated throughout this publication, are intended to reflect general expectations of conduct at the university.
One of the best recommendations that can be offered to any resident to ensure the successful growth of the community is to have mutual respect and consideration for others, and before you act, consider the impact of your behavior upon the lives of your fellow community members. Remember that consideration, cooperation, communication and compromise are the foundations of group living.
Within your apartment complex, you will find people who have a variety of backgrounds and lifestyles. This exposure may very well be one of the most interesting and important aspects of your university experience. Each person has unique experiences to share. You are encouraged to become well acquainted with the people in your community and use this opportunity, not only to increase your knowledge of others, but also to make new and lasting friendships. Additionally, you must have a willingness to share yourself and your experiences with the community. Your active participation and commitment to other residents is essential.
Programming at The Village offers you an opportunity to meet people, expand your cultural and educational horizons, have fun, and develop leadership skills. Staff members work with you to develop and coordinate programs. For more information on programs at The Village, contact a staff member, The Village Office or check the current issue of the department or community newsletter delivered to your apartment.
PAYMENT PLAN [back to top]
Residents of The Village may choose to participate in a monthly payment plan option or pay their rent in a lump sum at the start of the semester. Students must enroll in the program prior to the beginning of the term and there is a $50 enrollment fee. Rent payments are due to the Business Office by the 5th business day of each month. There is a $50 late fee assessed for payments received after the 5th. Although The Village Office cannot receive payments, all charges are placed on your student account and can be paid either on the web or at the business office.
KEEPING COSTS DOWN [back to top]
University Housing strives to provide the best possible housing to students at a reasonable cost. University Housing does everything that it can to keep student costs to a minimum. Residents can be a major force in keeping costs reasonable. The cost of utilities, maintenance, and major repairs are eventually passed on to you, the resident. We have listed a few things you can do that will help keep your costs low:
- Utility costs rise at unbelievable levels. Just being aware of this tremendous expense can help. Turning off non-essential lights and appliances when not in use can help keep these expenses down. Simple things like not running your air conditioner or heater with the window open can also save tremendous amounts of energy and money.
- Reporting malfunctions of heating, plumbing, and air conditioning units can increase their efficiency and keep costs down. Report any malfunctions to a staff member or The Village Office as soon as possible.
- Vandalism is the single greatest unexpected cost to the university. All vandalism costs are eventually passed on to the residents either through community assessment or through higher rent rates. When you abuse the furnishings in common areas or in your rooms it costs the university money to repair. You can help by not abusing the facilities and reporting any problems to The Village Office or a staff member.
- Catching problems early not only makes the community more attractive, but also prevents problems from getting worse and increasing the cost later on. If you notice a door that sticks, a loose window or other maintenance need in your apartment, room or hallway, notify a staff member or The Village Office so that repairs can be made.
- Propping doors and tampering with locks can damage the locking mechanism but more importantly, can compromise security. All doors are locked for your safety and security. Please help protect yourself, community property and your fellow residents by not propping doors open.
- The check-out procedure was established to hold residents accountable for the condition of their apartments, rooms and furnishings. By following the correct procedures we can assure that any damages will be charged to the correct person(s).
To qualify for housing at The Village, an applicant must be a degree-seeking student who is registered for at least 5 credit hours. The resident must maintain eligible status throughout the contract period. If the resident's status is altered to the extent that he/she fails to maintain eligibility, the University Housing staff must be notified, in writing, immediately. At any time after the resident's eligibility status has changed, University Housing may terminate the contract. For more detailed information about your contract, refer to The Village Contract Agreement.
FACILITIES [back to top]
THE VILLAGE FITNESS CENTERS [back to top]
The Village has exercise equipment in every building so you don't have to leave the comfort of the apartment complex to workout. There are five satellite fitness areas - one in each building (rooms 1220, 2216, 3214, 5013 & 6015) and one large fitness area (room 4006) that has cardio and strength equipment. Use of the fitness areas is limited to The Village residents only.
Please exercise responsibly and at your own risk. If there is an emergency, each fitness area has an emergency notification device.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
ABUSE, HARASSMENT, AND PHYSICAL ASSAULT [back to top]
The university provides an educational environment where adults must settle their concerns in a non-physical manner. Any resident involved in abuse or harassment, including physical assault, verbal abuse or threats toward another person will have their contract reviewed for termination.
AERIALS, ANTENNAS AND CABLES [back to top]
For safety and security reasons, residents may not throw anything nor extend aerials, antennas or other devices outside of any window.
ALCOHOL AND ILLEGAL DRUGS [back to top]
Students 21 years of age and older are permitted to possess and consume alcoholic beverages in accordance with all state and university policies and regulations. GCSU policy permits students 21 years of age and over to consume alcoholic beverages only within the confines of their own apartment or an apartment in which they are invited by occupants who are 21 years or older. Common containers (i.e. kegs, party balls, or other large containers) are not permitted within The Village. The possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages in public areas is not permitted. Residents who choose to consume alcoholic beverages are responsible for their actions and, should their behavior detract from the living environment, may be held accountable through the discipline process.
The university has a no tolerance policy for the illegal or abusive use of drugs. Students who use and/or possess illegal drugs in any university housing facility may have their contract terminated without financial refund. Please reference The Student Handbook and the The Village Contract Agreement concerning illegal use of alcohol and/or other drugs. Students under the age of 21 may not posses or display alcoholic beverage signs or containers in their room or apartment.
APARTMENT CARE [back to top]
Each apartment is furnished with carpeting throughout the living room, hallways, and bedrooms and tile in the kitchen, front entry and in the bathrooms. The walls are painted off-white. Plush traditional furniture and wooden accents are provided as comforts for each resident.
It is the responsibility of the residents to maintain the appearance of the finishes. Large nails, screws, bolts, wall anchors, and double sided tape are never allowed on the walls. See the section entitled "Apartment / Room Personalization" for more information. It is your responsibility to keep the walls free from damage. Small marks can be cleaned with a damp sponge. Do not soak the drywall with water.
The carpet is treated with a stain guard protector. Most spills can be removed if taken care of immediately. When spills occur, blot with a paper towel or cloth immediately. Do not rub the spot into the carpet. Warm water, a damp sponge, and mild soap will remove the majority of spots. If the spot will not release, contact The Village Office for assistance. In case of fingernail polish or water-based paint, rubbing alcohol applied sparingly will remove the spot. Remember never rub the stain into the carpet fiber. Treating spots as they occur will save you money later.
All tile needs to be mopped on a regular basis. Never use wax on any tile. To clean, use a clean mop, warm water and a mild detergent or soap. Never use a bleach product or a tile cleaner with a bleaching agent. Be very careful not to splash water onto the carpeted areas. Be cautious as wet areas quickly become very slick.
The tub and shower units are fiberglass, and they scratch and stain easily. Care should be taken in cleaning the tub/shower. Do not use abrasive cleaners or sponges. Showers and tubs should be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent stains.
Any major stains or damages should be reported immediately to The Village Office or a staff member.
APARTMENT/ROOM PERSONALIZATION [back to top]
Decorating your apartment/room is encouraged at The Village so you can personalize your space and make it feel more like home. We encourage you to move furniture WITHIN your apartment (do not remove it from your apartment), bring plants, blankets and pillows for the couch and sofa chair, throw rugs for the bathroom and kitchen, a shower curtain for your bathroom, and posters to hang on the walls (using push pins only). You may also bring additional furniture with the approval of your roommates. It must be made of flame-retardant material.
Painting your room and making holes larger than push pins in walls is not permitted, but we do offer the following service to students who wish to use it:
The following items cannot be used on the walls, furniture or fixtures in the apartment; large nails, screws, bolts, wall anchors, tape of any kind, magic mount, self-adhesive hooks, and sticky tack.
APPLIANCES [back to top]
Basic appliances are provided for each apartment unit. The apartment comes standard with a refrigerator/freezer with ice maker, microwave oven, cook-top with conventional oven, dishwasher, garbage disposal, air-conditioning/heating unit, and (for buildings 100-300) washer and dryer in the apartment or (for buildings 400-600) access to common washers and dryer. Small electrical appliances that have a completely enclosed heating element and are U.L. approved (i.e., coffee-makers and popcorn poppers) are permitted in the kitchen area of apartment units.
The following appliances are not permitted in The Village Apartments: Air-conditioning units and ceiling fans that are not already installed, hot plates, space heaters or appliances with open flames or heating coils, electric blankets, or any appliance that poses an electrical overload hazard.
It is the responsibility of the resident to keep all provided appliances clean and in good condition. If a problem arises at any time, you must call The Village Office or a staff member.
BALCONIES, ROOFS AND PORTICOS [back to top]
For safety reasons, residents are not permitted on the balconies, roofs or porticos of any building at The Village.
BICYCLES [back to top]
Residents are permitted to store bicycles in their apartment or exterior bike rack. Any damage caused by storage of a bicycle will be assessed to the resident. To ensure safety within the building and to avoid damage to the carpet or hallway, bicycles are to be walked, not ridden, within the building. Fire regulations prohibit storing bicycles in hallways, stairwells, on porch railings, or in public areas.
CABLE TELEVISION [back to top]
Expanded basic and HBO service is included in individual rooms and living rooms in the apartments. You are responsible for connecting the incoming cable to your TV or DVD/VCR. To receive channels 14 and higher, your TV or DVD/VCR must be cable-ready.
CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT PROCEDURES [back to top]
All residents must check-in and check-out of their assigned apartment. Check-in occurs when you move into an apartment. You will be issued a room key, mailbox key, and Room Condition Report. During check-in, a student will be required to pay an activity fee that will enable him or her to participate in Village programs and activities.
Check-out takes place each time you change rooms, apartments or when you move out of The Village. To check-out you must sign up for a check-out time 24 hours in advance. Check-out times are scheduled through The Village Office where staff will provide you with a check-out instruction packet. Damages incurred between check-in and check-out may be assessed during the check-out process.
COMMON AREA COMPUTERS [back to top]
Computers are available in the Clubhouse Computer Lab. These computers are for the use of Village residents and have been set up to meet the general needs of the students. To ensure continued access to the computers, students are to refrain from activities that damage them and to comply with the university's Acceptable Usage Policy.
Do not save anything onto the computer hard drive. Students should save their work on disks, thumb drives, etc.
Do not change the configuration of the computers. They have been set up for general computer activities: word-processing, spreadsheets, e-mail, etc.
Do not try to fix computer problems. If you are experiencing difficulty with a computer, contact The Village Office. They will contact SERVE to begin the repair process.
Failure to follow these policies could result in removal of all lab computers.
COMPUTER AND NETWORK USAGE [back to top]
Access to networks and computer systems owned or managed by Georgia College & State University imposes certain responsibilities and obligations and is granted subject to university policies and local, state, and federal laws. Appropriate use should always be legal, ethical, reflect academic honesty, reflect community standards, and show restraint in the consumption of shared resources. It should demonstrate respect for intellectual property; ownership of data; system security mechanisms; and individual rights to privacy and to freedom from intimidation, harassment, and unwarranted annoyance. Appropriate use of computing and networking resources includes instruction, independent study, authorized research, independent research, communications, and official work of the offices, units, recognized student and campus organizations, and agencies of the university. Authorized users may use university computing facilities and resources, including transmission over the university network, for scholarly purposes, for official university business, and for personal purposes so long as such use (1) does not violate any law or university policy, (2) does not involve significant use of university resources, direct costs, or substantial interference with the performance of university duties, work, or data communications networks, or (3) does not result in commercial gain or private profit. All students should be familiar with the GCSU Acceptable Use Policy.
COOKING [back to top]
You may cook in apartment kitchens only. The care and cleaning of the kitchen is your responsibility. Do not pour any cooking grease down your kitchen sink. It is up to the residents to maintain the appearance and cleanliness of the kitchen and all appliances in it.
DARTS AND DARTBOARDS [back to top]
Because of the potential for personal injury and property damage, darts and dart-boards are not permitted in student apartments.
DRUGS [back to top]
The use, possession or distribution of any illegal stimulant, depressant, hallucinogenic or narcotic drugs or drug paraphernalia in or around The Village Apartments violates state law and the Student Code of Conduct. All violations or suspected violators will be reported to Public Safety and may result in cancellation of housing privileges.
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION DEVICE/BUTTON [back to top]
In each bedroom, an emergency notification device/button has been installed. It is clearly identifiable with a red and white sticker over its faceplate. This device is for emergency use only.
Once activated/pushed, an alarm will sound and a Public Safety Officer will be automatically dispatched to the room.
The device has been designed so that it cannot be unintentionally activated. Anyone activating the device in a non-emergency situation will be assessed a $100 fine and face disciplinary action.
EXPLOSIVES, FIREWORKS, AND FLAMMABLES [back to top]
The possession of fireworks, explosives, gunpowder, ammunition, or any flammable material which may jeopardize the safety of others, is strictly prohibited.
EXTENSION CORDS [back to top]
For reasons of safety and fire code, students may have one multi-outlet strip (a.k.a. surge protector) per room at The Village. Extension cords and splitters are not permitted. Violations of this policy could result in fines by the State Fire Marshal. Students with computers should check with The Village Staff for guidance on surge protectors.
FACILITY RESERVATION [back to top]
Any student group/organization wishing to reserve space in The Village Clubhouse which includes the pool, game room, and/or computer or study rooms must complete a Facility Use Agreement. The agreement may be obtained from The Village Office.
FIRE AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT [back to top]
The fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, fire alarm horns, pull stations, emergency exit signs, sprinkler system, and emergency notification buttons are critical safety equipment and are provided for the protection of the residents. Tampering with fire and safety equipment can result in criminal prosecution, disciplinary action and/or contract termination. Where fire sprinklers exist, all sprinkler heads must remain free of obstructions to allow them to operate properly. Nothing may be attached or placed against any part of the sprinkler system. Evacuation information is posted on the back of your apartment door.
Georgia College & State University is required to hold a fire drill each semester in all facilities and all occupants of the buildings are required to participate. Failure to evacuate when any alarm is sounded will result in disciplinary action.
FURNISHINGS [back to top]
Each apartment has a sofa, cushioned chair, end table, coffee table, bookcase, dining table and dining chairs in the living/dining area. A full sized bed is in each bedroom, along with a bookcase, a desk and desk chair, a three-drawer dresser, and closet space. You are allowed to bring the amenities necessary to make this your home provided they are not permanently attached to walls, doors, or any other university furnishings. However, you are not permitted to remove University property from the apartment.
Each bedroom comes with its own telephone jack, data port and cable TV jack. Remember, you are not allowed to install any additional items such as ceiling fans or cable jacks. The room configuration may vary, so please measure your space before purchasing additional items. Blinds are provided as window coverings in each room.
GAMBLING [back to top]
The playing of cards or any other game of skill or chance for money or other items of value is prohibited.
GRILLS [back to top]
Persons may grill on university grounds outside residential areas within the following parameters:
- Storage of materials for grilling (charcoal, lighter fluid, etc.) is not permitted in student apartments.
- Grilling is not permitted inside apartments, within 10 feet of any building or in hallways or stairwells.
- Extreme caution must be used to prevent the danger of fire with live coals and sparks.
- All debris and trash utilized for grilling must be completely clean and clear after each use.
Due to the potential fire hazard, halogen lamps are not permitted in student apartments.
HEATING & COOLING [back to top]
Personal and/or privately owned air-conditioning units are not allowed in the apartments. Heating and cooling are on a heat pump system that is controlled by a thermostat in your apartment. You are advised to set your thermostat on 76 degrees during the summer and 68 degrees during the winter. Set the thermostat on "auto". This will allow the fan to cycle on and off; the on setting will cause the fan to run continuously. Specific instructions on setting the heat and air thermostat can be found by contacting The Village Office or a staff member.
HORSEPLAY [back to top]
Due to the likelihood of property damage and the potential for personal injury, ball playing, squirt guns, water fights, skateboarding and horseplay are not permitted in hallways, stairwells, or inside student apartments. Water fights are prohibited in the apartment complex due to the potential for personal injury and property damage. This includes water balloons, water guns, and/or hoses.
INSURANCE [back to top]
The university does not carry insurance to cover loss or damage to resident's personal belongings. Individuals desiring such protection must make arrangements for the necessary coverage through their parent's homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance. To ensure the safety of your belongings, remember to always lock your apartment door when you leave.
KEYS/SWIPE CARD [back to top]
At the time of occupancy all students have their personal Bobcat card programmed to their apartment and students are issued a room key and a mailbox key at no charge. If a key is lost, the student will be charged replacement costs. When a room is vacated, it is the responsibility of each student to return their keys to the staff member processing their check-out and see that the check-out form is reviewed. If a key is not returned by the resident, it is considered an improper checkout and the lock will automatically be re-cored at the student's expense. It is the responsibility of all residents to keep their keys with them at all times.
For security reasons, students are not to loan or duplicate keys. Report all lost keys immediately to staff or The Village Office. You will be issued a temporary key or card. For the safety and security of you and your roommates, your lock will be changed if you do not return the temporary key or card within three (3) days.
If you should lock yourself out of your apartment/room, the following persons should be contacted in the order listed to obtain assistance:
A. Your roommatesPlease remember that the building staff consists of students and their schedules do not permit them to be available at all times.
B. Your Community Assistant/Resident Assistant
C. The Village Office
D. Community Assistant/Resident Assistant on Duty
Staff will only grant access to an apartment or bedroom assigned to the individual. Doors to other people's apartments and or bedrooms will not be opened for any reason.
LAUNDRY FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT [back to top]
In buildings 100, 200, and 300, washers and dryers can be found in each apartment in the laundry room located just off the kitchen. In buildings 400, 500, and 600, washers and dryers can be found in the laundry rooms on each floor near the elevators. You are responsible for your own laundry items and for following the proper procedure for washing and drying. For safety reasons, always check and clean the lint filter on the dryer prior to each use. Use of the laundry facilities is restricted to residents of The Village only.
LOUNGE/PUBLIC AREA FURNITURE [back to top]
Public area furniture is provided for the use of all residents and may not be taken to student apartments or rooms. A charge may be assessed for public area furniture found in student apartments or rooms. Damage to public area furniture will be charged to the responsible individual(s) or to the community (see Public Area Damages).
MAIL DELIVERY [back to top]
Mail is delivered to the The Village via U. S. Mail Service. Each apartment is assigned a mailbox located at the Clubhouse, and keys are issued to each resident of that apartment at check in. Mail is delivered Monday- Saturday. Packages sent by UPS and Federal Express will be delivered to The Village Office and may be picked up Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Students should use the following address for mail delivery:
Student NameThe Department of University Housing is not responsible for lost mail or packages.
120 West Campus Drive, Apt. #
Milledgeville, GA 31061
MAINTENANCE [back to top]
The university employs a maintenance and custodial staff to keep the apartment community in good physical condition. The maintenance and custodial staff provide safety equipment inspections, general maintenance (painting, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, heat, and air-conditioning), and custodial services. Custodians clean public area spaces including hallways and exterior of the building on a regular basis. You are responsible for cleaning your own apartment; bedroom, kitchen area, bathroom, and common space. Requests for maintenance should be made online by clicking here. Emergency work orders must be called into The Village Office during regular business hours or to a staff member on duty after hours. The custodial or maintenance staff will then make necessary repairs.
OPEN FLAMES, CANDLES AND INCENSE [back to top]
Because of the danger presented by open flames, candles and incense are not permitted in student apartments.
PARKING AND SHUTTLE [back to top]
Included in your student fees is a parking fee. Students are required to register their vehicles and display a GCSU parking decal on their vehicles when on university property. Once activated, your Bobcat card will give you access to the gated parking area, which is reserved for resident students only. Guest parking is available in the large parking lot in front of The Village Office. You are responsible for following all university parking regulations. A copy of parking regulations may be obtained at the Parking and Transportation Services Office.
Free shuttle service to and from campus is provided to all students. Shuttles leave from The Village Clubhouse and go to Central Campus. Schedules are posted. Student's are encouraged to ride the shuttle, as parking at Central Campus is limited.
PETS [back to top]
While registered service animals for students with disabilities are allowed with written prior approval of the Executive Director of University Housing and the Assistant Director of Equity for Disability Services, pets and therapy animals are not allowed. For health and sanitation reasons, fish in an 10 gallon (or smaller) aquarium are the only animals that are permitted in the residence halls and apartments. If you decide to bring a fish tank, it is your responsibility to make arrangements for your fish during semester breaks when all electrical items (including aquarium pumps) must be unplugged. Unauthorized animals will result in a minimum pest control charge per room of $100.
PUBLIC AREA DAMAGES [back to top]
Vandalism of housing facilities costs all residents. Repairs and maintenance cause increased rental rates. You are, therefore, encouraged to exercise care in your buildings and to be aware of those who do not. To avoid community assessment, students should monitor their areas and report those who perform acts of vandalism.
Because we believe in the importance of the development of the community in each living unit and each resident's responsibility for that community, any damages to the public areas for which the responsible individual(s) cannot be determined will be assessed equally amongst all members of that community. The process of community assessment is the final option should all attempts by the community to identify the responsible person(s) be unsuccessful. Once assessed the members of the community must make payment at The Village Office within 10 business days. After 10 business days, a $10 processing charge will be added to your student account and you must pay this charge at the Business Office.
If a resident is found destroying or defacing university property in or around the apartment community, he/she will face disciplinary action and make restitution for the damages. The defacement of university property includes, but is not limited to, the use of any writing implement on any door, wall, or clean surface not meant for this purpose. Writing or carving on public area furniture is prohibited.
Residents are responsible for the actions of their guests in and around the apartment community and will be held financially responsible for all damages caused by their guests. Residents and guests can also be charged by the Department of Public Safety for damage to state property.
QUIET HOURS/COURTESY HOURS [back to top]
Quiet hours are set to help provide an atmosphere that is conducive to good scholarship and to promote an environment where individuals can learn and study. The enforcement of quiet hours is the responsibility of each resident.
Quiet hours are in effect daily from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. This is the time when most residents will sleep and study. However, courtesy hours are in effect at all times. You should expect to be able to study anytime. Please observe requests from your neighbor or roommate if they ask you not to disrupt their study time, regardless of the time of day. You would expect them to observe similar requests from you.
One purpose of the apartment community is to provide comfortable living accommodations for all students. Any action which interferes with a student's right to study is a violation of this standard and may be subject to disciplinary action. Stereos, video games, televisions, and voices should be kept at a level which confines the noise within that apartment. If you wish to turn up the volume, you should use headphones.
During examination periods at the end of each semester, quiet hours are in effect 24 hours a day.
ROOM/APARTMENT CHANGES [back to top]
Room/Apartment changes may take place as space is available, two weeks after the start of each semester. You are encouraged to discuss room changes with your roommate(s). The student seeking the room change should contact The Village Office. You will receive notification if the change is approved. Do not move until you are notified that the change is approved. If you move without prior approval from The Village Office, you may be assessed a charge, required to return to your original location and/or face disciplinary action.
ROOM CONDITIONS [back to top]
The condition of each apartment and room is checked prior to a student's arrival. To avoid being charged for damages for which you are not responsible, you should carefully check the Room Condition Report provided by The Village staff at check in to make certain all existing damages are noted on the sheet (see Check in and Check out Procedures). Any damages which take place in your apartment and/or room will be assessed to you and your roommate(s).
Residents must maintain their apartments and rooms in a clean and orderly manner. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.
ROOM ENTRY [back to top]
The Department of University Housing respects the student's rights for privacy within the group living-learning environment and will strive to protect and guarantee this privacy.
Apartments/rooms may be entered under the following conditions:
- to provide maintenance repair service or safety inspection;
- when there is reasonable cause to believe that university regulations or laws are being violated;
- for an emergency situation that requires that the apartment/room be entered; and
- when a resident vacates an apartment, authorized personnel may enter that apartment to provide maintenance inspections, repair service, custodial service, or safety inspections.
A student's apartment/room will not be entered without knocking. A sufficient time lapse will be allowed to provide the residents ample opportunity to open the door. If no response is received, the apartment/room may be entered under the four conditions listed above. Before entering a room with the use of a key, staff members will identify themselves.
Authorized university staff members who may enter a student's apartment/room are administrative housing staff members, student staff, maintenance, custodial, and safety personnel.
PAINTING [back to top]
Residents are not permitted to paint any walls in the apartments at The Village. Please see "Apartment/Room Personalization" for details on decorating.
SAFETY AND SECURITY [back to top]
As a resident, you play a major role in the safety of yourself and your fellow residents. You can reduce your risk of being a victim of crime by doing the following:
- If you see suspicious persons or if you feel threatened at any time, contact the GCSU Department of Public Safety immediately.
- Always lock your door and take your key and Bobcat card even if you are only going out for a few minutes.
- NEVER prop open a door.
- NEVER loan your keys to someone else for any reason.
- NEVER let someone you do not know into your apartment.
- Report lost keys or Bobcat cards and/or damaged locks immediately.
- Report any security concerns to an apartment staff member.
Emergency telephones have been added to some parking areas. To operate the emergency phone, simply press the red emergency button. It will connect you directly to the Department of Public Safety. Speak into the speaker.
Residents who choose to endanger other residents by propping open exterior doors, loaning their key or Bobcat card to a non-resident, granting access to non-residents or tampering with and/or damaging exterior doors, locks, emergency buttons or security phones will have their contract reviewed, face disciplinary action and/or be subject to criminal charges.
All doors to buildings 500 and 600 must be secured at all times. Resident access is limited to the two double door entryways in each building. Doors may not be propped open at anytime. Any resident caught violating the security of the building could face disciplinary sanctions.
SCREENS AND WINDOWS [back to top]
For safety reasons, screens are not to be opened or removed from windows. Ledges are not to be used for storage, nor are students allowed to walk or sit on ledges. Students will be subject to contract review and will be held liable for damages to property or personal injury resulting from items being thrown from windows or falling from ledges. Removal of the screen will result in a reinstallation charge and repair charges if necessary. Additional disciplinary action may also be taken.
SEVERE WEATHER [back to top]
In case of severe weather such as thunderstorms or tornados, you should immediately move to the interior of your building on lower floors if you live in Phase II apartments. If you live in Phase I apartments, you must move to the bathroom in your apartment and close the door. If evacuation is necessary, instructions will be issued through a university staff member. In all severe weather situations, be sure to stay in contact with and follow the instructions of Village staff members.
SHARPS [back to top]
Students who must use hypodermic needles and syringes for medical reasons must dispose of these items properly. Contact a student staff member at The Village for more information.
SIGNS, PICTURES & POSTERS [back to top]
Georgia law prohibits the removal and possession of traffic and/or street signs. Therefore, traffic or street signs are not permitted in student apartments. Pictures and other materials should not be displayed in areas that may be visible outside the student room or apartment. Alcoholic beverage signs or containers are not allowed as window displays. You may not hang anything in your windows other than blinds or white curtains. Flags, signs, pictures, and advertisements are not permitted. Writing on windows is defacement of university property and, therefore, is also not permitted.
SKATEBOARDING AND ROLLERBLADING [back to top]
Due to damage and safety concerns, rollerblading and skateboarding within the apartment community are strictly prohibited. This includes hallways, stairwells, sidewalks, and parking lots.
SMOKING [back to top]
State law prohibits smoking in any state owned or operated buildings, therefore, smoking is prohibited inside apartments, hallways, stairwells and laundry rooms. Designated smoking areas are located around the buildings.
SOLICITATION AND SELLING [back to top]
For reasons of resident privacy, safety and security, door-to-door solicitation of any type is prohibited. Report any solicitors to the staff or Public Safety immediately. See The Village Contract Agreement for more information. Vendors and organizations soliciting for specific charitable causes or those causes related to issues within the university community may be approved to take place in or around the Clubhouse grounds. Contact The Village Office for more details.
TELEPHONES [back to top]
All apartments in buildings 100, 200 and 300 are equipped with a telephone in the kitchen as well as telephone jacks in the living room and each bedroom. A permanent telephone number is assigned to each apartment and there is no charge for local calls. Private phone service is available in each bedroom at the resident's request and additional cost to the resident. Students must use a calling card for long-distance service. All apartments in building 400, 500 and 600 are equipped with telephone jacks in the living room and each bedroom. You must dial "9" to make a local call.
TELEPHONE HARASSMENT [back to top]
Georgia state law provides that a person who, with intent to harass, annoy, or alarm another person but with no intent of legitimate communication, makes a phone call, whether or not a conversation ensues, commits harassment (a misdemeanor) and may face prosecution by the university through the courts and disciplinary action. Report all incidents of phone harassment to the student staff or The Village Office.
THEFT [back to top]
Any resident found in the possession of another person's property will have their contract reviewed for termination and may face prosecution through the courts and the GCSU Honor Code. An atmosphere in which residents can feel safe and secure must be maintained.
TRASH DISPOSAL [back to top]
Residents are responsible for disposing of their personal trash and trash from their apartment. Trash is not to be placed in hallways, stairwells, or public area containers. All trash should be taken to the dumpster located in Phase I closest to Building 200 or at the entrance to the Building 400 parking lot. It's not the custodial staff's responsibility to pick up or remove trash. All boxes must be broken down before disposing of in the dumpsters. Any object that cannot fit in a large trash bag must be taken to the city dump. Please see The Village Office for directions.
VISITATION/GUESTS/ESCORT Policy for Residents of Buildings 100-400 [back to top]
Visitors or guests are defined as persons who are not contractual occupants of the specific room or apartment in question.
Although residents may have visitors/guests from time to time, occupancy of The Village is expressively for contracted residents only. Overnight guests may stay any night of the week for a maximum of three nights within a fourteen-day period with the consent of the roommates(s). Consideration for roommates and other Village residents dictates that guests do not infringe on the rights of contracted residents. Therefore, residents of the apartment must approve all guests, regardless of gender. Guests must abide by all policies and hosts are responsible for the conduct of their guests. All guests must have a resident as a host and be escorted by that host at all times. Any person without a host will be escorted from the premises. If an individual is found occupying space in an apartment, they will be held responsible for rent during the length of their stay and removed from the premises immediately. All roommates in the apartment where the individual is staying illegally will have to split the rent if the individual occupying the space cannot be held responsible.
VISITATION/GUESTS/ESCORT Policy for Residents of Buildings 500-600
Visitors or guests are defined as persons who are not contractual occupants of the specific room or apartment in question.
Monday through Thursday residents are permitted, with the consent of the roommates to have guests of the opposite sex in their rooms between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight. From 10 a.m. Friday until Sunday at midnight, with the consent of the roommate residents are permitted to have guests of the opposite sex in their rooms anytime.
Overnight guests of the same gender may stay any night of the week for a maximum of three nights within a fourteen day period, with the consent of the roommates.
Consideration for roommates and other apartment residents dictates that guest do not infringe on the rights of contracted residents. Therefore, residents of the apartment must approve all guests, regardless of gender. Guests must abide by all policies and hosts are responsible for the conduct of their guests.
All guests must have a resident as a host and be escorted by that host at all times. Any person without a host will be removed from the building. If an individual is found occupying space in an apartment, they will be held responsible for rent during the length of their stay and removed from the building immediately. All roommates in the apartment where the individual is staying illegally will have to split the rent if the individual occupying the space cannot be held responsible.
WATERBEDS [back to top]
Water beds are prohibited in student apartments.
WEAPONS [back to top]
Weapons such as firearms, knives, bows and arrows, as well as any ammunition, are prohibited in the apartment complex. Be aware that according to Georgia law (16-11-121.1) it is a violation to possess a weapon within 1000 feet of campus, except for Public Safety Officers.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES [back to top]
UNIVERSITY STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT [back to top]
General Statement
Georgia College & State University may discipline a student in nonacademic matters. This normally involves matters which occur on the GCSU campus or at GCSU-sponsored events, but may be extended to off-campus matters which could reasonably be expected to impact the GCSU community. Repeated off-campus arrests generally result in GCSU judicial charges as well as criminal charges. Behavior cited by the university's Public Safety Officers will be handled as on-campus incidents whether they were technically committed on campus or off. For the purposes of this section, the term conduct shall include acts which knowingly or unknowingly violate federal, state, or local laws, and/or Georgia College & State University rules and regulations, or which the student knew or reasonably should have known, would result in occurrences prohibited by this section. All students are expected to adhere to the stipulations of the GCSU Honor Code, which addresses lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and vandalism. All Village students are expected to adhere to the contract terms and stipulations listed in this booklet. Students are subject to disciplinary action for violating the following Code of Conduct:
- Underage possession or use of alcohol; illegal possession, use or sale of controlled substances; or conduct that violates local, state, or federal laws, or GCSU regulations regarding alcohol and other drugs.
- Conduct which constitutes a danger to the personal safety of others. This may include assault, attempted assault, or the threat of assault.
- Conduct that obstructs, seriously impairs or attempts to obstruct or seriously impair university-run or university-authorized activities on any university property, indoors or out.
- Acts that violate the university provisions concerning parking, traffic, ID cards, university keys, smoking in unauthorized places, carrying firearms, unauthorized peddling, unauthorized use of sound amplifying equipment, and other acts which violate local, state or federal laws, or which violate appropriate conduct.
- Intentional harassment of another person. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, threatening, intimidating, verbally abusing, impeding, telephoning, communicating electronically, following or persistently bothering or annoying another person. Harassment may include, but is not limited to, acts based on sex, race, religion, national origin, handicap, or sexual orientation.
- Failure to abide by disciplinary sanctions imposed by a GCSU judicial body or authority.
It is presumed that any student who matriculates at Georgia College & State University is willing to conform to a pattern of mutual trust and honor and shall deal honorably with all members of the university community. It must be understood that it is the responsibility of each student, faculty, and staff member to preserve, nurture, and strengthen this spirit of honor.
Georgia College & State University students shall, at all times, refrain from and discourage all attempts at lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and vandalism. When a violation of the Honor Code is detected, students should take steps to bring the matter to the attention of the Student Judicial Board or the Vice President and Dean of Students.
CONDUCT WITHIN HOUSING FACILITIES [back to top]
Policies for the resident students have been developed to establish an environment in which a large number of residents may live together with maximum freedom while recognizing the rights of fellow residents. Ideally, all residents accept responsibility for their actions in their community living situation and make an effort to be aware of how their actions affect their neighbors. When a resident violates this basic standard of community living by endangering the safety of other residents or violating any of the policies outlined by the university or this handbook, this behavior must be confronted.
Violations of university policies, medical and emergency situations, and property loss or damage are documented on Incident Report forms and forwarded to the Manager of Apartment Living for buildings 100-400 and the appropriate Hall Director for buildings 500-600. Those involved will be contacted within 48 hours for follow-up and/or referral. Incident Reports can be filed by any resident or staff member.
During the hearing with the Manager of Apartment Living or the Hall Director, the resident should read and sign the Incident Report and choose a course of action:
- Accept responsibility and agree to have the Manager of Apartment Living or Hall Director hear the case and determine sanctions if necessary.
- Do not accept responsibility and schedule a hearing to be held within five class days.
All appeals must be in writing and submitted to the Assistant Director of Residence Education at the University Housing Office if you live in buildings 100-400. All appeals for residents of buildings 500-600 must be submitted in writing to the Manager of Apartment Living. Appeals must be submitted within five class days from the date the resident receives written confirmation of the hearing's outcome.
CAMPUS PHONE NUMBERS [back to top]
| Admissions | (478) 445-2771 |
| The Village Office | (478) 804-4690 |
| Bobcat Card Office | (478) 445-2273 |
| Bookstore (Maxwell Student Union) | (478) 445-8117 |
| Bookstore (Wilkinson Street) | (478) 445-8398 |
| Career Center | (478) 445-5384 |
| Center for Student Success | (478) 445-2761 |
| Counseling Services | (478) 445-5331 |
| Dining Service | (478) 452-2409 |
| Financial Aid | (478) 445-5149 |
| Health Services | (478) 445-5288 |
| International Education Center | (478) 445-4789 |
| Library | (478) 445-0980 |
| Public Safety | (478) 445-4400 |
| SERVE (Computer Assistance) | (478) 445-7378 |
| Student Activities | (478) 445-4027 |
| University Housing | (478) 445-5160 |
| V.P. for Student Affairs | (478) 445-5169 |
VILLAGE OFFICE HOURS/STAFF ON DUTY [back to top]
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
The Village Office (478) 804-4690
If The Village Office is closed, please contact the staff member on duty:
Buildings 100-400 call (478) 451-7989
Buildings 500-600, contact respective staff member on duty when The Village Office is NOT open.