The University Student Advisory Board last night entered the borough's embroiled fair housing debate, requesting a future ordinance that would prevent landlords from excluding tenants on the basis of age.

Borough Council President Gary Wiser's proposed ordinance, which protects from discrimination based on sexual orientation and marital status, would allow discrimination against residents under age 23.

USAB will send a letter to the borough council and the Community Development Block Grant Committee requesting that Wiser's proposed Fair Housing Ordinance not mention age.

USAB members are concerned that students may be banned from living in certain apartments in the State College borough.

"I think students should be allowed anywhere," said USAB Vice President Ken Martin. "If members of the borough are concerned about students being disruptive, there should be tighter lease agreements."

"They've stereotyped the ages of 18 through 23 as people who stay up all night and party."

Councilwoman Jean McManis said the age limit in the Wiser proposal is designed to protect housing for senior citizens and families. However, the council may consider lowering the age limit, she added.

"It's my understanding that the age limit could be lowered," she said. "I think that the most amenable, coherent proposal is the Wiser ordinance. I'm waiting for it to come up on the agenda."

USAB President Judy Falce said the organization is sending the request to the CDBG committee, so that the ordinance will be drafted without mention of age before it is even considered by borough council.

Last month borough council refused to vote on an ordinance inspired by Councilman Peter Lang. The ordinance did not clearly address the issue of age.