A lack of students filling seats on the Technology Advisory Board has prevented the approval of technology proposals this year, delaying approval at least two weeks.

TAB, which oversees how student technology fees are used each semester, was supposed to make its recommendations to the Chancellor this week. But up until late last week, ASUAF President Thom Walker said he was unable to find anyone to fill the student government's three seats.

Walker said he found two new members as of Friday. He cited time constraints and a lack of student interest as why it took so long.

Students pay a $5 technology fee each semester going to various faculty, staff and student projects. Projects funded last year included a robotic arm for the College of Science, Engineering & Mathematics, digital audio production equipment for the Journalism Department and wireless networking in the residence halls' commons, amongst others.

At the moment, Walker said, seats are open on several other committees, including the Subcommittee on Circulation and Parking, Curricular Affairs and the KSUA Media Board. Walker said he has also been unable to attend Staff Council and Faculty Senate meetings and wants someone to go in his place.

Asked why ASUAF senators weren't approached for the seats, Walker said the thought had "crossed my mind," but wasn't "sure if that's the best use of them." Adding responsibilities might distract them from the Senate, he said.

ASUAF does not have formal appointment power to the board but was allowed to recommend students to it by Chancellor Marshall Lind, according to Paul McCarthy, the board's chair.

Although Chancellor Stephen Jones "certainly has the right" to appoint the students, McCarthy said, he hadn't heard anything indicating he would. Asked if he knew about TAB's situation, Jones indicated he'd never heard of the body.

TAB next meets Nov. 13.

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