Minutes of Public Meeting - November 1, 2022
Commission Members Present:
Michael Algeo
Ernie Grecco
David Hayden
Thomas Bowman
Emmet Davitt
Konrad Wayson
Robert Lillis
Tammy Lafferty
Thomas Winebrenner
Members Absent:
Staff Present Representing the Maryland Racing Commission:
J. Michael HopkinsExecutive Director
Eric B. London
Assistant Attorney General
In accordance with §3-302, General Provisions Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Maryland Racing Commission (“Commission”) met in person and by conference call in open session at 12:30 p.m. at Laurel Park on October 4, 2022. Prior to the meeting, Chairman Michael Algeo informed the public that their phones or computers should be muted, but he would give the public the opportunity to address the Commission during Public Comments. At the start of the meeting, Chairman Algeo confirmed that all other Commissioner members were present at Laurel, with Commissioners Emmet Davitt, Tom Bowman and Ernie Grecco participating by phone.
Minutes – October 4, 2022.
The Commission waived a reading of the minutes of its meeting on October 4, 2022 and voted unanimously to approve the minutes.
HISA – Update.
Executive Director J. Michael Hopkins informed the Commission that the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (“HISA”) had provided the industry with its 2023 assessment for the racetrack safety and drug testing services that HISA is going to provide as of January 1, 2023. Mr. Hopkins also informed the Commission that he, Counsel Eric London and Principal Counsel of the Department of Labor Milena Trust were in the process of reviewing an agreement from HISA that outlines the responsibilities of the Commission and HISA, when HISA takes full control over drug testing on January 1, 2023.
Maryland Jockey Club – Update.
Mike Rogers representing the Maryland Jockey Club reported that Maryland Million Day was very successful and thanked all those who helped make it a success. Mr. Rogers also explained that the world record setting horse “Bull Dog Hanover” would be running at Rosecroft on November 11, 2022.
Ocean Downs Update.
Bobbi Sample reported that Ocean Downs continues to plan for the 2023 race meet.
Public Comments.
Andy Cashman representing the Maryland State Fair reminded the public of the mixed stock sale taking place at Timonium on December 6, 2022. Cricket Goodall of the Maryland Horse Breeders commented that the race card on Maryland Million day was the best card of races she had ever seen and thanked the Maryland Jockey Club for all their support.
Next Commission Meeting.
January 3, 2023, at Laurel Park Race starting at 12:30 P.M.
/s/ Michael Algeo
Chairman