If a fire-safety ordinance were passed this week, plans for the University's Academic/Athletic Convocation and Events Center would doubtlessly be amended to fit the standards.

But University administrators and the convocation center's architects are having some problems complying with a law passed two years ago -- the Americans with Disabilities Act.

A recent meeting between representatives of people with disabilities and administrators is a positive step, but one that should have been taken sooner.

The meeting may push the convocation center closer to compliance, but problems linger with the convocation center's design. And construction is set to begin in October.

Previous plans had wheelchair-accessible seating only behind the backboards for Basketball games. Although more recent plans allow for more variety in such seating, the possibility remains for the University to sell some wheelchair-accessible seating to corporations, according to a retired architectural draftsman. University officials claim they have no plans to sell these seats, something advocacy groups for the disabled should definitely keep an eye on.

Also, there is no reason for the convocation center not to comply with the 2-year-old act. If the University, donors and the state are spending $55 million on a facility, it should be sure to meet all building codes and laws.

Complying with a law shouldn't be something the University should strive for or just hear input on, it should be something the University does.

And equal accessibility shouldn't be something people have to fight for, it should be something they have.