Freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of the press... and the freedom to party? After spending a year or two living in the university dorms many students opt to live in a local apartment. But does the freedom from on-campus regulations make it easier to party and have a good time?
With 300 student apartments, CJB Enterprises houses nearly 1,000 Ball State students. The leasing agreement at CJB states that residence must be "in appliance to all laws." No other rules are given in relation to parties. Cliff Johnson, Manager of Leasing at CJB, stated that their company is aware that parties are happening in their buildings. To maintain order CJB employs security officers from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. When a complaint is made regarding noise level or other disturbances, security makes the last call.
"We won't just say cut the sound," Johnson said. "A security officer will go to the apartment of the resident who made the complaint and see if action is necessary. Johnson advises student residents who are planning to have a party to "keep everyone inside and to tell your neighbors if you are going to have a party."
Cardinal College Leasing has a slightly stricter policy. The lease agreement does not allow any kegs on their property. Residents also are required to sign a drug-free housing policy. If a resident is found guilty of drug use or possession, he will be evicted. Off duty police officers are on-hand from Thursday to Sunday to monitor the premises. Karleen Dann, Property Manager, admits that security has had to confiscate kegs in the past, but no serious problems have occurred. Dann encourages partying tenants "to be respectful to their neighbors and not to get out of control."
Sterling University Estates does not have a specific clause in their lease regarding alcohol or parties. However, the lease does state that residents and guests "shall not be loud, obnoxious, disorderly, boisterous, or unlawful." Other clauses prohibit violence and drugs. Parties do occur and a noticeable increase is usually seen during Homecoming "especially if Ball State wins," Nicole Griffith of Sterling University Estates said.
"We are not going to stop someone from having a get-together as long as it doesn't get out of hand," Griffith said.
Sterling University Estates has 552 apartments with 95% of residents being Ball State students. Courtesy officers are present after the Estates office hours.
Despite leasing agreements and regulations, students are going to strive to have their "freedom to party" while residing in off campus apartments.
"You have to let college students be college students," Cliff Johnson of CJB College Leasing said. "People are going to party."
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