Committee questions $100,000 security request for new historical racing facility, approves Racing and Gaming budget

The committee reviewed the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission’s budget and asked for clarity about a $100,000 security‑related request tied to the historical racing pari‑mutuel facility in Park City.

Representative (Amicks) raised why the agency sought $100,000 for security-related items. KLRD analyst Molly said the request covered radios for law enforcement officers to communicate with local police, fingerprinting equipment, licensing database expansion, and minimal furniture and computers; staff noted the facility opened in December and the agency reported some of the purchases had already occurred or were planned as reimbursable items. Molly said law enforcement officers at the facility “need to have radios to communicate with local law enforcement.”

Members also flagged inconsistent FTE counts: the agency’s budget indicated 119.5 FTEs in its analysis, while a separate sheet showed roughly 99 active employees. KLRD explained the agency had high turnover among law enforcement positions and had been advertising roles about a month before opening; several vacant officer posts had start dates or interviews pending.

Representative Picker moved to accept the Racing and Gaming Commission budget per the SBC recommendation; Representative Van Houten seconded, and the committee approved the budget by voice vote.

What’s next: Members requested clearer annual headcount snapshots and vacancy aging from agencies so the committee can evaluate staffing needs more effectively.