STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Barren County is set to play a larger role in shaping Kentucky’s overall tourism strategy.
Governor Andy Beshear appointed MacLean Lessenberry, executive director of the Glasgow-Barren County Tourist and Convention Commission, to the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority on March 25, 2026 for a four-year term, according to information provided by local tourism officials.
“I’m honored to be appointed to the Tourism Development Finance Authority, especially because I’ve seen firsthand here in Barren County how this strategic incentive can transform communities, turning places like Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave from a lodging stop along the way into a true destination in its own right,” said Lessenberry. “Tourism is a vital economic engine for the Commonwealth, and I look forward to supporting efforts that drive growth, create jobs, and showcase all that Kentucky has to offer.”
The Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority oversees the Kentucky Tourism Development Act, a state incentive program designed to support new and expanding tourism attractions. Under the program, qualifying projects can recover a portion of their development costs through future tax revenue generated on-site.
In Barren County, Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave, accepted for the incentive in 2016, is highlighted as a local success story tied to the program.
Lessenberry has served as executive director of the Glasgow-Barren County Tourist and Convention Commission since 2019. With a background in digital marketing, she has focused on positioning Barren County as a top tourism destination in Kentucky. She also serves as president of the South Central Kentucky Film Commission, which works to support regional tourism and innovative economic development.
She will continue serving in those roles in addition to this appointment.
Key Facts
• Gov. Andy Beshear appointed MacLean Lessenberry to the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority on March 25, 2026.
• Lessenberry is executive director of the Glasgow-Barren County Tourist & Convention Commission.
• The Authority oversees incentives under the Kentucky Tourism Development Act.
• Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave is cited as a local example of the program’s impact.
• Lessenberry also serves as president of the South Central Kentucky Film Commission.
Michael Crimmins with Glasgow News 1 contributed to this reporting.
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