A last-ditch effort by members of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity to keep open their doors has failed.A revitalization plan created by the members as an appeal was submitted to the fraternity’s graduate council, House Corporation. House Corporation President Kameron de Vente would not comment on the plan, but said the closing will move forward.”This is not a reflection on the guys today,” de Vente said. “Its a reflection of a growing trend.”Dan Swartwout, a senior fraternity member, said most of the guys in the house have already made arrangements for the fall.”Obviously we’re all disappointed,” he said. “I’m glad he (de Vente) said it wasn’t a reflection on us.”The council cited financial problems and lack of membership as two reasons for the closing. Adam Peller, Phi Gamma Delta president, said the closing came as a total surprise to the active members.”I understand their (House Corporation) viewpoint,” Peller said. “The bills have to be paid.”Neither de Vente or Peller would comment on the size of the fraternity’s debt, but Peller said the problems began with a missed rent payment several years ago. Rent on the house is $16,000 per quarter, Peller said.The closing will give the fraternity, commonly known as FIJI, time to rebuild and regroup, de Vente said.”I want a new chapter, a different chapter,” he said. This is not the first time FIJIs have taken this action. The house was closed for two years in the late 1970s to recolonize for similar reasons, de Vente said.FIJI house is the oldest fraternity on campus and was founded by members of Ohio State’s first graduating class. Fraternity members must leave the house by Aug. 30, Peller said. Current members will be given graduate status in the fraternity.The FIJIs currently have 35 active members.