Campus laundry facilities now free of charge

A&M-Commerce's campus laundry facilities were overhauled as of Oct. 5, 2010. After years of having to pay for the usage of on-campus washers and dryers, residence life has finally made use of all university laundry facilities free of charge.

Laundry facilities at A&M-Commerce have revolved around the usage of cash, cash cards and adding value for years. Variations of this system have earned mixed receptions from students for years.

"Loading the cards up was kind of a hassle," Smith Hall resident Antonious Solomon said. "Now that we don't have to keep adding value, things are smoother and quicker than before."

The overhaul has received praise from several students, who claim that the improvement has made the chore of washing clothes much easier.

"I have enjoyed the free services so far," on campus resident Missy Hathaway said. "The change has worked really well."

Students also appreciate the economical impact of the changes.

"The machines have been much easier to work," freshman dorm resident Collin Scoggins said. "Since I don't have to waste money, I can also stop stuffing the machines with as many clothes."

The new system is not without at least one drawback, however, as it has increased demand.

"Since it's free, more people are using them, so they're a little bit harder to get a hold of," Scroggins said.

In addition to the issue of availability, there are also areas that have yet to see any the effects of the change at all. Sorority houses have yet to have their machines replaced, despite the removal of all value-adding machines for laundry cash cards.

Panhellenic Council President Amanda Edwards said this creates an awkward situation.

"My roommate came into the room and didn't realize that she couldn't use the dryer," Edwards said. "So, she had to leave them to dry in the room, which was kind of disgusting. Everybody has to go to other places to do their laundry like Laundromats, boyfriend's houses, any place possible."

Edwards said her attempts to voice a concern about the inconveniences have gone unanswered.

"I have sent numerous e-mails, text messages and phone calls to residential assistants, and have not gotten an answer back at all," Edwards said. "I don't know if they're too busy or just don't care, but I feel really shafted."