State Auditor Questions Funding of Executive Director Position for Backside Improvement Commission. Commission has not met since 2001



See the audit report for Full Details

Edward B. Hatchett, Jr.
Auditor of Public Accounts
144 Capitol Annex
Frankfort, KY 40601

Contact:
Matthew G. Cantor
Intergovernmental Liaison
Phone 502-573-0050
FAX 502-573-0067
APA.PressReleases@auditor.ky.gov
(Frankfort - August 5, 2003) In an examination released today, State Auditor Ed Hatchett questioned whether the Backside Improvement Commission needs an Executive Director and criticized the salary paid to the current Director.

"The duties of this position are minimal," said Hatchett. "In a typical year the Commission meets once or twice, receives two or three payments, and issues two checks. The Commission has not met since 2001, yet the salary and benefits for the position cost $80,000 annually."

The examination, triggered by a citizen complaint, focused initially on the Kentucky Racing Commission but discovered information that soon led auditors to expand into other areas.

The examination also found problems with

  • The use of a government tax-exempt number on a private bank account maintained by members of the Racing Commission
  • The claiming procedures at racetracks
  • A Racing Commission personal service contract
  • The Purchase and distribution of Racing Commission pins which allow free admission to state racetracks
 

Edward B. Hatchett Jr.
Auditor of Public Accounts
144 Capitol Annex
Frankfort, KY 40601
WEB: www.auditor.ky.gov/