Horse racing decision delayed

The Flathead County commissioners postponed a decision Tuesday on the fate of horse racing at the Northwest Montana Fair.

The move came amid questions about the financial impact of racing, both at the fair and in the local economy.

The commissioners were scheduled to consider a resolution of intent that would have ended horse racing at the fair, in part because they felt the activity was being subsidized by county taxpayers.

The resolution also provided for a five-week public comment period.

However, Susan Nicosia, the countys internal auditor, said Tuesday that she doesnt have the information she needs to determine whether the county is really losing money on the races.

Revenue and expenditures related to horse racing are captured in two different accounts, she said. While one account typically shows a substantial annual deficit, the other account tracks money from a variety of sources, without indicating if its specifically related to horse-racing.

Consequently, the county cant conclusively answer whether it loses money on this activity, Nicosia said.

Shes working with Fair Manager Jay Scott to sort out the second account to provide a more definitive answer.

During a public comment period Tuesday, several speakers suggested the commissioners consider the financial ramifications for local businesses and agricultural producers before canceling the races.

Janis Schoepf, a local horse trainer, said her clients may stay here for a month, spending thousands of dollars with local businesses. In addition, she and other trainers spend hundreds of thousands of dollars here on hay, equipment and training facilities.

This spreads so far across the valley, you cant imagine, Schoepf said. Id like to present you with some [financial] numbers that would offset the losses you see. You cant make a good decision when you arent given accurate numbers.

Sue Austin, the chairwoman of the Montana Board of Horse Racing, offered to meet with the commissioners at a work session and review the financing.

The commissioners decided to take her up on that offer. They agreed to postpone action until after the work session and after Nicosia can clarify the budget numbers.

Reporter Bill Spence may be reached at 758-4459 or by e-mail at bspence@dailyinterlake.com.