Guest Column: MSA plans to work with KCOU
Oct. 10, 2008
In light of recent developments regarding Missouri Students Association auxiliary KCOU/88.1 FM, I want to take this opportunity to clarify the position of my administration regarding the funding of the new FM tower.
My administration has pledged to be a responsible steward of student fees. Because KCOU is funded almost entirely by MU students, we believe it is our obligation, when committing the student body to a financial outlay of this magnitude, to examine closely the facts at hand before we make an investment. Particularly, we want to see value in the program for those who are not directly involved in it, and we want to make sure there are plans for sustained growth. We have indicated time and time again a willingness to sit down with KCOU leadership to discuss the issue at hand and develop a mutually acceptable solution. Make no mistake about it: If we can show that this is a good investment for all MU students, my administration will make that investment.
I do not dispute that KCOU has a long, proud history on this campus. I also do not dispute that KCOU has tremendous value for the students and their families who are directly involved in the program. I acknowledge there is potential for exponential growth at the station and that today's management should not be held accountable for the failings of past station leadership. Finally, I believe current leadership needs to be a part of any solution we find, and that MSA is partially responsible for putting KCOU on a path for future success.
But KCOU must also take responsibility for its own success. To do that, I encourage KCOU to come to the table ready to negotiate in an honest, thoughtful way with members of my administration.
Finally, I will not sign Act 48-07 as it is written. While it is an honest attempt at brokering a final resolution to this conflict, it is much too limited in scope to be effective to address the long-term issues facing KCOU radio. It lacks strong accountability measures and leaves too many issues unaddressed to ensure KCOU's future success.
My administration looks forward to working with KCOU and the MSA Senate to find a fair, responsible solution to this funding challenge.
Jim Kelley
Missouri Students Association president
jameskelley@mizzou.edu
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