Republican Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer has taken the lead in challenging the Kentucky Horse Park Commission management, but the former chairwoman is firing back.
Alston Kerr, who was replaced last week by Gov. Matt Bevin appointee Tandy Patrick, tells the Lexington Herald-Leader Thayer was turned down for a paid position with Equestrian Events Inc. in 2010 and has launched a "vindictive" campaign against the park's management.
Thayer calls the accusation "ridiculous."
"I checked into the possibility of a job for an organization that runs the Rolex Three-Day Event, which is based at the Horse Park. And I'd even forgotten about that," he tells WUKY. "I'm pushing for accountability and transparency."
The high-ranking Georgetown Republican has authored legislation that restructures the Horse Park Commission and trims its membership down from 17 members to nine. He says the changes are necessary to root out political influence and address wasteful spending and poor management.
"I have heard from multiple constituencies that there are problems at the Horse Park. There is an audit that have proven that there are problems at the Horse Park," Thayer adds.
Kerr argues the dustup is negatively impacting fundraising prospects at the park. Thayer dismissed those charges Tuesday as well, saying donors will likely continue to support the venue and the General Assembly remains poised to approve a $2.5 million annual appropriation for the park.
