I would like to point out some serious and misleading errors in the Oct. 30 editorial about the off-campus student union. The union's purposes go far beyond those few stated in the editorial. For instance, the union also seeks to provide stronger, more organized representation of student interests to local and state governments. Such organization will be paramount if students wish to have a substantial voice on issues such as surveillance cameras downtown, to name but one.

Constructing and launching such an apparatus in a way that ensures it will last for years to come doesn't happen overnight. Perhaps if the Collegian editorial staff took the effort to accurately acquaint itself with all the union's goals, fewer students would be led to believe this is a simple task of narrow scope.

Another error in the editorial was the assumption that the union cannot function without permanent office space downtown. Until such space is granted, the union will be able to use HUB-Robeson Center space.

Also, the editorial complains that the Undergraduate Student Government should be addressing problems with campus life and off-campus housing immediately.

USG is and has been handling these issues for some time now through its legal affairs, town affairs, governmental affairs and other departments.

The goal of the union is to tie these various functions together, including those mentioned above, into a comprehensive and lasting organization. Off-campus students, a substantial portion of this community, must gain the influence they deserve.