Special review finds management issues at Kentucky Horse Park

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A special examination of the Kentucky Horse Park’s finances found questionable management practices and potential conflicts of interest, state Auditor Mike Harmon said Wednesday.

“Poor management and lack of oversight have contributed to the need for nearly $25 million in General Fund transfers to support the Horse Park over the last 10 years,” Harmon told reporters at a press conference. “In other words, the taxpayers of Kentucky have been left holding the bag when it comes to propping up the park.”

The review, requested by Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer, took eight months to complete, and concentrated on a period running from July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2016. Thayer, a Georgetown Republican, represents the central Kentucky district where the horse park is located.

Tourism, Arts and Heritage Secretary Don Parkinson, and Finance and Administration Secretary William Landrum, III also asked Harmon to review the horse park’s operations.

Read more: http://kentuckytoday.com/stories/special-review-finds-management-issues-at-kentucky-horse-park,6728