The University Union has hired a pair of consultants to develop a plan for a events center to house Hornet athletics, recreational activities and the Student Health Center.

Project Director Joel Zarr, a campus life facility planner, and Assistant Director Dan Adams are currently in the first phase of the project, which consists of reviewing pertinent university information, gathering input from students and comprising a list of space needs for the project.

The university is paying $50,000 to the team of consultants.

A selection committee felt that Zarr’s facility proposal best fit the university’s situation, said athletic director Terry Wanless.

The second phase of the project consists of developing a blue print for the facility, putting a student referendum on the ballot and “developing a plan of action after the fee increase is approved,” according to Zarr and Adams’ Wellness/ Recreation/ Events Center Work Plan.

University Union Director Leslie Davis is hopeful to put a student fee referendum on the spring 2004 ballot, which would go toward funding for the project. In 1998, the student population voted against a referendum for a new recreational facility.

Davis said the university is shooting for 2005-06 to have the project complete and said she expects private donations to pay for 30 percent of the facility’s cost.

“The hope is that we will be able to do enough fund-raising where we will delay the payment of the (student) fee as long as possible,” Davis said.

Hornet Gym is tied with Portland State’s Stott Center for the smallest basketball facility in the Big Sky, holding 1,500 fans. The other six schools in the Big Sky Conference range from 3,241 to 7,500 in capacity.

“Facilities do attract better athletes,” said junior volleyball player Sandra Bandimere.

“High school recruits come to our gym and it looks like a high school gym. Then you go to Weber (State University) and they have a big arena.”

The gym, renovated in 1999 under former athletic director and current volleyball coach Debby Colberg, currently serves as home to Hornet basketball, volleyball and gymnastics, as well as recreational sports activities.

The new facility would serve as a new home to all of Sac State’s indoor athletic activities, as well as all athletic department offices.

“You have to have presidential support,” Wanless said. “Dr. Gonzalez has certainly endorsed this project and that’s a big step.”

Davis is currently looking for on-campus organizations and other students to take part in focus groups with Zarr and Adams.

Those interested can contact Davis at 278-6744.