Chairman Erickson opened the hearing on HB 2560.

Tamera Lawrence, Assistant Revisor, Office of the Revisor of Statutes, gave an overview of the bill. (Attachment 16)

Senator Brad Starnes, District 22, said this legislation specifies that any sale must be carried out by the board's chairperson and executive officer. All proceeds from the sale will be deposited into Kansas State University's housing system repair and equipment and improvement fund. (Attachment 17)

Dr. Derek Jackson, Ph.D., Associate Vice President for Community Building, Director of Housing and Dining Services, Kansas State University, explained Kansas State University has outgrown both the capacity and functional limitations of the stand-alone Honors House. The Honors Program footprint has transitioned into the recently renovated Boyd, Putnam, and Van Zile Residence Halls as part of the Strong Community Redevelopment initiative.  The former Honors House, while historically meaningful, no longer meets the scale or facility standards required to serve today's programmatic needs.

Additionally, the university has received increased interest from a credible and well-known prospective group regarding the potential purchase of the property. This interest reflects continued market value and presents a timely opportunity to advance a sale consistent with sound asset management principles. (Attachment 18)

Discussion followed.

Chairman Erickson closed the hearing on HB 2560.