Auditor: No Formal KSP Referral Received in Tourism Matter

MANCHESTER — The Kentucky Auditor of Public Accounts has confirmed that it has not launched a special examination or audit involving the Manchester Tourism Commission, despite ongoing public discussion surrounding an inquiry that first began with the Kentucky State Police.

The Manchester Enterprise previously reported the inquiry was expected to be forwarded to the state auditor’s office after the inquiry by the Kentucky State Police.

The newspaper has reached out to the auditor’s office on the status of the inquiry in search of the truth and squash any ongoing rumors.

In a statement provided to The Manchester Enterprise, Olivia McKown, Director of Communications and External Affairs for the Kentucky State Auditor’s Office, said the office has not officially received a formal referral from KSP regarding the matter at this time.

“We have not officially received a formal referral on this matter from the Kentucky State Police,” McKown stated. “However, when we receive information through our confidential and secure tip line, we follow our normal procedures in processing that information.”

McKown said the office is processing information received through their tip line.

“At this time, the Kentucky Auditor of Public Accounts has not initiated a special examination or audit regarding this matter.  We are still gathering information and have not made any determination about whether to initiate an audit or special examination,” she said. “As a result, the office has not reached any conclusions regarding allegations of wrongdoing.”

It is also not known what allegations were made against the commission to the tip lines of the Kentucky State Police and the auditor’s office.

According to statements made during recent tourism meetings, the situation began after Kentucky State Police received a complaint involving the commission. Tourism Commission Chairman Jamey Mills previously described the matter as an “inquiry,” rather than a formal criminal investigation.

“The Kentucky State Police received a text tip alleging a complaint against Manchester Tourism,” Mills said. “KSP conducted an inquiry into the matter, and the Manchester Tourism Commission fully cooperated by providing all requested documents and information.”

Mills said the commission was later informed that the inquiry had concluded without criminal findings by the KSP.

“The Commission Chairman and Director were subsequently notified that the inquiry had been completed, and no criminal activity was found,” Mills stated.

Mills also said the commission remains open to any additional review that state agencies may deem necessary.

“The Tourism Commission welcomes a full review by the State Auditor’s Office and involvement from the Attorney General’s Office if warranted,” Mills said. “I’m completely satisfied with the outcome. In my eyes, this commission has done nothing wrong.”

At this time, no criminal charges have been announced, and no state agency has publicly alleged wrongdoing by the Manchester Tourism Commission or its members.