Associated Press
03-29-06
ISU Greek system worried over proposed sprinkler ordinance
DES MOINES, Iowa Some fraternity and sorority members at Iowa State
University are worried that a proposed ordinance requiring costly sprinkler systems could force some chapters to close.
The issue is scheduled to be discussed tonight at an Ames City Council meeting.
Ames Fire Chief Clint Petersen proposed the ordinance.
He estimates that automatic sprinkler installation costs up to 180-thousanddollars.
Petersen says he wants Greek houses to install the systems because fire calls have historically come from fraternity and sorority houses after parties where alcohol is consumed.
An I-S-U Greek affairs spokeswoman says the fraternity and sorority houses would try to finance pricey sprinkler installations through tax abatements from the city, low-interest loans from their national organizations and fundraising.
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