Discussions between Eastern and the city are considered by university officials to be ideal steps toward determining pros and cons for extended bar hours.

University officials emphasized the importance of looking at every angle such a decision would bring.

“It depends on what eyes you look through; it could be seen as positive or negative,” said Jill Nilsen, vice president for external relations.

“Looking at all the ramifications would be important before any decision could be made.”

Discussions over bars hours recently began after Champaign-Urbana establishments started serving alcohol until 2 a.m. Bars in Urbana now close at 3 a.m., while those in Champaign are open until 2:30 a.m.

Safety and image concerns are the recurrent themes of hour-lengthening opinions.

Last week, Mayor Dan Cougill mentioned a series of factors would need consideration including university image, safety and resident, student, university and bar owner satisfaction.

“I guess my comment is it’s something we need to look at,” Hencken said.

“This is a situation where the mayor, the school and students need to work together.”

He said he has already spoken with Cougill and is planning to improve relations between the city and the university.

“I’m really pleased to see the stance the mayor is taking; he is willing to discuss this,” Hencken said.

Both the university and Cougill are worried about keeping Charleston’s image as the host of an academic institution rather than a party school, and how extended hours would entitle the highest level of safety for students.

“I think university image is something we definitely need to take into consideration and not take lightly,” said Student Body President Caleb Judy.

Student safety issues is another worry.

“My concern is that Eastern students will drive to Champaign-Urbana because the bars there are open later,” Hencken said. “It doesn’t concern me that they will drive there, but it is the driving back after drinking that concerns me.”

Aside from avoiding travel risks associated with Champaign and Urbana’s longer hours, individual late night activities might be reduced.

“I think it would probably keep some people in bars longer and keep people from going to house parties where there are no chaperones,” Hencken said.

Judy shared that viewpoint.

“My personal opinion is that there are a few different ways to look at it: If students are in the bars they are spending more time in a more controlled atmosphere,” Judy said. “That seems to potentially be one big selling point.”

Judy said The Student Government is addressing the issue internally and planning to take external action.

“Bill Davidson and I are planning to meet with Mayor Cougill and President Hencken pretty quick,” he said.

The university plans to expand discussion and work alongside the city.

“It’s good people are talking,” Hencken said.

City Editor Carly Mullady can be reached at [email protected].