The state of Kentucky is paying $125 million to move the Chase College of Law and the University of Kentucky College of Medicine’s Northern Kentucky campus from NKU’s campus to downtown Covington.
Now some elected officials are calling the move a waste of money – and questioning the project’s transparency.
And two state lawmakers from Northern Kentucky have a proposal to change state law.
On Cincinnati Edition, we discuss the project, the Northern Kentucky Port Authority's role in it and the proposed legislation.
Guest:
- Kentucky state Rep. Matt Lehman, a Newport Democrat
- Newport city Commissioner Ken Rechtin
Beginning at noon, call 513-419-7100 or email talk@wvxu.org to have your voice heard on this topic. You can catch a recorded replay at 8 p.m.
Cincinnati Edition invited the Northern Kentucky Port Authority to be part of this discussion. A representative was unable to attend. The port authority sent this response to written questions:
The Northern Kentucky Port Authority operates fully within our statutory authority, purpose, and mission. Our longstanding commitment to working with our local partners on zoning, development, and historic preservation is well established and remains a hallmark of every project involving the Port.
A well-functioning, efficient, and collaborative business community drives growth across all sectors, and the Port Authority is proud to partner with local government and business leaders to contribute to the economic prosperity of our region. The visible progress achieved through projects in partnership with the Port stands as a testament to our positive impact.
Given this track record, it is extremely disappointing that the Port was not consulted in any way regarding the proposed legislation introduced by a member of the Northern Kentucky legislative caucus. Even more concerning is that none of the nine other port authorities in Kentucky—whose services are vital to their regional communities and economies—were consulted either.
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