Glasgow-Barren County Tourism director appointed to State Tourism Development Authority

GLASGOW, Ky. – Barren County is expanding its role in shaping Kentucky’s tourism future.

According to a release Monday, Gov. 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.

The tourist and convention commission says the appointment positions Barren County to “play a more active role in statewide tourism development efforts across the Commonwealth.”

The authority oversees the Kentucky Tourism Development Act, a program supporting new and growing tourism attractions by helping offset a portion of development costs through future tax revenue generated on site.

In Barren County, Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave, which was accepted for the incentive in 2016, shows an example of how the program can help transform a traditional lodging entity into a full destination experience, the release says.

According to the release, each project can only qualify if it goes through a formal application process led by the Secretary of the Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet.

With the secretary’s recommendation, eligible projects then go before the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority for preliminary approval.

“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,” Lessenberry said. “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.”

According to the release, Lessenberry has served as executive director since 2019, bringing a background in digital marketing and a strong focus on positioning Barren County as a top tourism destination in Kentucky. She also currently serves as President of the South Central Kentucky Film Commission, further supporting regional tourism and out-of-the-box economic development efforts.

“Lessenberry’s appointment reflects Barren County’s growing influence within Kentucky’s tourism landscape, as well as its track record of leveraging strategic development to elevate visitor experiences and heavy economic impact,” the tourist and convention commission stated.

To read more on the Kentucky Tourism Development Finance Authority, click here.