SEMO'S POLYTECHNIC BUILDING ON HOLD PENDING TAX-REFUND LAWSUIT

Southeast Missouri State University's plan to build a polytechnic building remains on hold over a tax-refund lawsuit.

University President Dr. Dale Nitzschke said Southeast won't proceed with the project until it can be assured it will receive the $5.6 million in state money budgeted for the project.

The state held up funding for the polytechnic building and other state capital improvement projects pending a court decision in a lawsuit brought by State Auditor Margaret Kelly regarding tax refunds under the state constitution's Hancock Amendment.

But the Missouri Court of Appeals-Western District said last week the state shouldn't count $106 million in gambling boat admission fees in its refunds of excess revenue to taxpayers.

The court said another $18 million should be included in computing refunds.

"We are pleased with the decision, but we don't know at this point whether it will be appealed," Nitzschke said.

A final decision about the funding could occur within three to six weeks, Nitzschke said.

Until then, the university won't sign off on the project. "Before we put the final document together, we have to know for sure that we have the money," said Nitzschke.

Southeast wants to construct a 60,000-square-foot polytechnic building, which would house the university's industrial technology program and provide space for customized training for industries.

The old Greek dining hall on the north end of the campus would be absorbed into the new building, which would also involve new construction.

In all, the project could cost about $8 million. It would be funded with state money and private donations.

Earlier this year, Otto and Della Seabaugh of Cape Girardeau agreed to donate more than $1 million to help fund construction of the technology building.