Published: October 15, 2008 08:39 am      

Sen. Stivers stays positive

Talks to chamber about area’s economic benefits

By Sean Bailey / Staff Writer

State Sen. Robert Stivers (R) brought a message of “positive perspective” to the Corbin Chamber of Commerce luncheon Tuesday.

“Even though nationally times are tough, things are going on here, and we need to express positive opinions, accentuate the positive,” Stivers said, “and talk about how good it is to live here.”

Stivers represents State Senate District 25, which includes Knox County. He is currently running against Democrat Michael “Whitey” Adkins in the November election.

During his speech to the chamber, Stivers said Corbin’s official location in two counties — Knox and Whitley — and unofficial connection to Laurel County makes it a true “regional city.”

“When you look at Corbin, it exemplifies more of the problems we have and more of the assets that we have than maybe any other town in the eastern part of the state,” Stivers said, “And that’s why I say Corbin is a regional city.”

Stivers said Corbin’s collaboration with other local governments is an asset that it needs to share with its neighbors and continue to improve.

“It’s great to have football rivalries and basketball rivalries between the Cardinals and the Redhounds ... but that’s where it needs to stop,” Stivers said. “We have to look at what we can do to raise the tide under all the ships.”

In the midst of the national bank crisis, Stivers said Kentuckians should remain positive. While other states are considering bailouts and federal loans, Stivers said Kentucky has been able to sell nearly $400 million in bonds on Wall Street.

It means investors felt secure enough to loan the commonwealth money, and it’s a good sign. Funds from the bond sale will be used for capital projects including more than $114 million for projects at state institutions of higher education.

“Our state is on good, sound fiscal footing,” Stivers said. “We’re able to issue those bonds when other states can’t ... We are in a good position and a good area.”