The average grant during the spring was $290.

Weinberg also disputes the theory that the small groups the council usually funds spend their money irresponsibly.

"These are not financially irresponsible groups," he says. "They keep very good track of their money, just because they have so little."

Nonetheless, many student leaders were disgruntled with the process. Two weeks ago, they came before the council to call for a Student Groups Merit Fund, a separate grants fund to be earmarked for distribution on a need-blind basis.

Although the fund was voted down for procedural reasons, the Finance Committee did agree to set aside some money to be considered on a need-blind basis.

Council members and student group leaders came out wholeheartedly in favor of the reform.

"I think it could be one of the best reforms we've ever had," says council President and former finance chair Robert M. Hyman '98. "Until the new fund was created, the large student groups, particularly the ethnic groups were ignored."

And while the administration has no role in the determination of grants, Dean of Students Archie C. Epps III also says he approves of the council's reform.

However, while most council members favor the new fund, some are adamant that the smaller groups the council traditionally funds not be pushed aside.

Weinberg makes it clear that he is unwilling to divert any more money from the normal fund to the new, need-blind fund.

And indeed, the money for the new fund will come from roll-over and an increase in funding allocated to the Finance Committee.

"I have no qualms about giving the lion's share to these small groups," Weinberg says. "These are groups that without us, would not survive. It's hard to conscience taking money away from [them]."

"It's very important for Harvard students to have a variety of these programs around," he says. "They are vital to our campus."

Weinberg points to the Harvard Computer Society (HCS) as an example of a small council-funded group that performs a great service.

Last spring, HCS received the second largest council grant--$800--to purchase computer equipment that is used by many organizations in the College.