Murray State University’s Board of Regents Chairman wants to vote again on President Randy Dunn’s contract on Friday. Board Chairman Constantine Curris released a statement Wednesday asking the board to vote again to reinforce the board’s responsibility to act in an open and transparent manner.
The board first voted against extending Dunn a new contract on March 15th following a social gathering at a regent’s home. The Kentucky Attorney General has since deemed the gathering, where a quorum was present and university business was discussed, an illegal board meeting.
Dunn says considering the Attorney General’s ruling, he isn’t surprised a vote will likely occur. “It probably not surprising he (Curris) wants come back and take the vote yet again to make sure it sticks in the event there would be action in the circuit court.”
Dunn doesn’t expect a different outcome from this vote.
Lexington Attorney Jim Deckard, who has been the lead critic of the board’s actions regarding the social gathering, has also issued a statement. “After six weeks and a finding by the attorney general that he violated the law, I’m pleased that Chairman Curris has publicly committed to address these issues,” said Deckard. “We’ll be monitoring this to determine next steps. “
Curris will may make his statement regarding or entertaining a motion for a revote during his report which is scheduled before 8:30 a.m. during the board’s quarterly meeting on Friday. Curris' morning report is unusual because the Chair’s report normally occurs during the afternoon session of the full board meeting.
The board agenda also doesn't include an option for public comment, typically it does. The board often seeks a speedy May meeting to attend pre-commencement activities. MSU's spring commencement is Saturday.
The board’s agenda also indicates a closed session to address personnel issues which could involve a vote on Dunn’s recommendation that Jay Morgan serve as the university’s next provost. However, there is speculation that one of the University’s Vice Presidents may ask the board to approve an early retirement contract.
New Faculty Regent Renee Fister and Student Regent Jeremiah Johnson will be sworn-in during the meeting. The Board will also set tuition and mandatory fees for the next academic year.