A contracted bookkeeper allegedly took an “appreciable” amount of money from the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in Talladega, the museum board’s chairman says.
Gerald Dial issued a statement regarding the alleged misappropriation of funds following a recent meeting with the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts staff, who were conducting an audit of the attraction’s finances. The person had been hired on a part-time basis to pay bills for the museum.
“Unfortunately, there are always those who believe they can beat the system—who think they can misuse taxpayer money for personal gain,” Dial, a former state senator, said in a written statement. “That is exactly what has occurred at the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.”
The former employee has not been charged with any crime and the matter will be referred to the Alabama Attorney General’s office for possible prosecution, Dial said. Dial did not release the former employee’s name in the statement or during an interview Monday with Alabama Daily News.
The examiners’ office confirmed to ADN that an audit was underway, but can’t comment until it is released. Dial said that should happen in early October.
Dial told ADN the missing funds probably total $100,000 to $200,000. He said the former employee worked for the museum for about two years. The board thought it was saving money by using a contract employee.
“Thinking we’re saving money has cost us more, but we’re implementing a new system of checks and balances,” Dial told ADN.
Dial thanked the examiners’ office and its executive director, Rachel Riddle, for their work.
“They are the unsung heroes of our state—quietly and professionally protecting taxpayer dollars,” he said. “Their work has recovered millions for Alabama and helps ensure that public funds are used as intended.”
Earlier this year, the executive director of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame was terminated and asked to repay nearly $65,000 in misspent funds following an examiners’ audit.
That report found 29 significant issues at the museum and tourist attraction in Tuscumbia, including thousands spent on travel and meals, an improperly awarded bonus and other matters of noncompliance with state laws.