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 2022.
Move the Board to approve the purchase of the research properties.
The motion was seconded. However, before a vote could occur, Kegent 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.
CFO Shields provided an overview of the requested expenditure. He noted that the total cost for the network equipment and exterior security cameras would be approximately $548,000.
Regent Hatchett asked why the issue was being addressed so late in the construction process. CFO Shields stated his belief that it was a failure on the part of Kentucky State University when it was negotiating the contract. He noted that he was not at the University during the negotiations of the contract, so he has limited knowledge of what transpired.
General Counsel Lang stated that at the time the contract was first negotiated, the most important University officials were not included.
Regent Dukes asked about the action item's budgetary implications. Interim President Johnson stated that the University would be able to allocate funding to finance installation of the equipment.
Move the Board to approve the network equipment contract.
The motion was seconded by Regent Briggs and passed without dissent.