Chair Patton also expressed his belief that student housing must be a priority.
Interim President Johnson stated that he would speak with the campus community to determine what can be done to increase progress concerning housing.
Regent Moseley emphasized the importance of maintaining campus cleanliness instead of only cleaning in anticipation of important events, such as move-in.
E. Approval of Expenditure – Research Properties (Action Item)
CFO Shields provided an overview of the Land Grant Program and the requested expenditure. Dr. Kirk Pomper, Director of Land Grant Programs, gave a detail description of the properties that Land Grant would like to purchase, as well as an explanation of how the properties would be used. Director Pomper noted that the properties would be purchased using federal funds and that those funds would have to be returned to the federal government if not used before the end of September.
Vice Chair Walston asked how Land Grant selected the requested properties and expressed concern about the distance between KSU’s campus and the property Land Grant would like to purchase in Jackson County. Director Pomper provided an explanation of the selection process and why the Jackson County property would benefit the University.
Regent Fields echoed Vice Chair Walston's concerns over the Jackson County property, stating that he knows it can be difficult to access remote areas in eastern Kentucky.
Regent Hatchett asked how Land Grant would have used the remaining $2,000,000 in its budget if Covid-19 had not hampered its operations. Director Pomper noted that the University received federal funds earlier than anticipated and informed the Board that Land Grant intends to hire approximately 35 more employees using the funds. Regent Hatchett then asked for clarification on whether Land Grant normally prioritizes purchasing land over hiring more employees. Director Pomper replied that it has been difficult to hire qualified individuals.
Regent Dukes asked if there was a risk of losing the funds. Director Pomper affirmed that the funds would have to be relinquished if not used before the end of September.
MOTION by Vice Chair Walston:
Move the Board to approve the purchase of the research properties.
The motion was seconded. However, before a vote could occur, Regent Fletcher asked if there was money allotted for the maintenance of the properties. Director Pomper assured that money had been set aside for that purpose.
A vote was then taken, and the motion passed without dissent.