Date Available

9-19-2025

Year of Publication

2025

Document Type

Graduate Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Public Financial Management

College

Graduate School

Department/School/Program

Public Policy and Administration

Faculty

Urton Anderson

Committee Member

Iuliia Shybalkina

Faculty

Morgain Patterson

Abstract

This paper examines the oversight and training requirements for fiduciary managers within Special Purpose Government Entities (SPGEs), comparing practices in Kentucky with those in a select group of peer states. The analysis highlights notable deficiencies in fiduciary training, enforcement, and accountability standards in Kentucky, which lead to ongoing issues of financial mismanagement. A review of exemplary practices from other states highlights the importance of mandatory training, robust oversight frameworks, and effective enforcement measures in enhancing fiduciary outcomes. Recommended actions involve implementing mandatory fiduciary training programs, strengthening enforcement authority, and improving transparency mechanisms.

To evaluate Kentucky’s oversight of SPGEs compared to peer states, this study employed a qualitative comparative case analysis of eight states chosen for their varied oversight models, which include comprehensive, hybrid, minimal, and reform-oriented. Using data and information gathered that focuses on four essential dimensions: Training Mandates, Enforcement Powers, Transparency Infrastructure, and Fiscal-Remediation Tools, each assessed through two sub-indicators (scored from 0 to 2). Information was gathered from statutory texts, administrative regulations, audit reports, and publicly accessible compliance portals, with scores confirmed through sensitivity tests. This methodical approach facilitated a systematic comparison of Kentucky’s framework against best practices in states included in the study, ensuring thoroughness and replicability in our policy recommendations.

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