Scott County supervisors debate county support for Carter Family Fold executive director position

County administrators told the board that the Scott County EDA had been awarded $212,125 from the Tobacco Commission to support hiring an executive director for the Carter Family Fold, a 501(c)(3) arts/tourism organization. The county would be asked to host the position and provide benefits for a three‑year grant-funded post.

Supporters argued the Fold is an internationally known cultural asset that draws visitors and spending into the county. "They’re coming from everywhere," a supporter said, citing international visitors and the museum’s collections. Proponents said the position would boost marketing and help the Fold transition from a volunteer-run model to a sustainable operation.

Opponents said the county should not assume ongoing financial responsibility for a private nonprofit and worried that, after grant funds expire, the county could be pressured to absorb full staffing costs. One supervisor said, "If you do it for one private business, you’re going to be asked to do it for others," and expressed concern about a precedent. Several supervisors asked for audited financial statements, trends in ticket sales and a proposed organizational chart before authorizing benefits or formally adding the position to county payroll.

County administrators said they would bring financial documents and a proposed memorandum of understanding that would specify reporting relationships and hiring oversight; they proposed that county representatives (administrator and economic development director) review applications and participate in interviews alongside Fold board members if the county becomes the employer of record for benefits.

No final action was taken; supervisors asked staff to return with requested financials and hiring oversight proposals before any vote.