Ball State University's Dining Service plans to introduce free water cups in the Art and Journalism Building Atrium and in residence dining halls by next semester. This will waive the current 25-cent charge per cup that the university implemented last summer, university officials said.
Avanelle Reed, manager of food service purchasing, said Ball State began charging 25 cents per clear plastic cup of water during the first summer session to accommodate the rising cost of plastic products.
"We knew last spring it was going to go up extra high, and because of that, that's one of the reasons we knew we would charge," Reed said. "And that's why we're looking for something less expensive but still serves the purpose. We're trying to get the best product we possibly can."
Ann Talley, director of Residence Halls Dining Service, said students also used to take multiple cups of free water from the food courts, which also contributed to the university's decision to began charging.
"We found that students were helping themselves to many in stacks," Talley said.
After receiving complaints from students regarding the cost of the water cups, however, Talley began to look for a cheaper replacement. Reed has already contacted several companies, one of which will send the university some samples within the next few days.
"Obviously it will probably just be a little plain-Jane white cup, but for those who want water and don't want to pay anything, it will meet their needs," Talley said.
When new water cups arrive, Ball State will maintain its contract with Solo Cup manufacturing company by using the remainder of the clear plastic cups for other food and beverage items, Talley said.
"We will be evaluating the companies, and hopefully we'll be able to waive that charge," Talley said. "That's our goal."
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