Well, it is pretty clear that NC DOT jumped the gun on concluding that design-build financing could be used to finish 485. The crux of the matter — as we suggested from the very beginning — is the state’s authority to guarantee $50m. worth of private debt.
The ball is now squarely back in Bev Perdue’s court. Despite serial attempts to duck the foolish promise Perdue made back in February to start the final leg of 485 this year, the ball has remained in Bev’s court. More like a landmine than a ball, in fact. But Bev has two choices.
Either NC DOT comes up with a cogent legal opinion demonstrating that the state treasurer is wrong, and by cogent we mean something besides a UNC School of Government flunkie telling us government officials can do whatever they damn well please with taxpayer money. Or. Those responsible at NC DOT for running with this latest funding scheme get fired.
Seems fair for 10 months of jerking around a couple million people.
