Lexington, Kentucky, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Fayette County Public Schools in Lexington, Kentucky, has sparked controversy after revealing over $2.5 million in charges on school-issued credit cards by high-ranking administrators. The expenses included lavish meals and hotel stays, amidst a looming $16 million budget shortfall. Superintendent Demetrus Liggins is under pressure to address these financial issues and implement stricter spending controls, as community concerns grow over financial accountability and mismanagement.
Lexington, Kentucky – Fayette County Public Schools has come under scrutiny after revealing that employees charged over $2.5 million on school-issued credit cards between August 2024 and January 2025. A total of $2,570,611 was spent by approximately 135 high-ranking administrators on Fifth Third Bank credit cards during this six-month period.
Among the various charges, 34 meals ranged in price from $500 to $1,000, while 23 meals exceeded $1,000. Most of these meals occurred in Lexington, with one notable out-of-state dinner taking place at Ellen’s Stardust Diner in New York City for $948. Additionally, $32,000 of the overall spending at Crank and Boom ice cream was funded through donations. Purchases also included extravagant activities such as a $3,300 charge at an ax-throwing entertainment complex and thousands spent on chocolates, along with hotel stays that even included a trip to Finland.
Concerns about the district’s financial management have escalated after news of a $16 million budget shortfall surfaced. Superintendent Demetrus Liggins is facing mounting pressure to address the spending issues, following reports of $3.6 million being spent on over 200 trips for staff in the previous school year. Discussions about travel expenses and spending limitations have begun, with indications from Liggins that future restrictions on travel funded by the district’s general fund will be implemented.
In November 2024, Fayette County Public Schools reported spending $86,246 on hotel stays at educational conferences across the United States. Credit card statements uncovered 108 hotel charges during that month, which included stays in Helsinki, Finland by Deputy Superintendent Houston Barber. This trip was part of the Global Cities Education Network annual symposium. Spending for meals alone exceeding $500 totaled $60,781, with high-profile restaurant expenses including A.P. Suggins Bar and Grill and Malone’s.
Administrators collectively spent $52,673 on hotel stays for 112 principals attending a conference, a cost that district official Scully has defended as essential for professional development. Fayette County’s guidelines permit overnight hotel stays beyond a 60-mile radius and allow for broad food purchases associated with official district business. However, despite established controls, board members and state legislators are expressing concerns regarding the extent of meal charges and credit card utilization.
Credit card statements from the district do not clarify the number of attendees or the purposes behind high-cost meals exceeding $1,000, leading to rising calls from both the community and school board members for increased financial accountability. Following the budget shortfall and perceived financial mismanagement, the demand for external audits has intensified. Amid continuing criticism, the Fayette County Board of Education approved an $827 million budget, even as calls for resignations from key district leaders emerged.
Background Context
The financial scrutiny faced by Fayette County Public Schools highlights significant concerns regarding spending practices within the district, especially during a period marked by a considerable budget shortfall. The excessive nature of credit card charges has raised questions about existing financial safeguards and has prompted discussions regarding stricter spending controls, particularly around travel and meals. The future of financial management within the district remains uncertain as stakeholders seek accountability for past expenditures.
FAQ
What was the total amount spent on credit cards by Fayette County Public Schools from August 2024 to January 2025?
The total amount spent was $2,570,611, primarily by around 135 high-ranking administrators.
What types of expenses contributed to the spending reported?
Expenses included meals, hotel stays, entertainment activities, and significant charges at various restaurants and venues.
What has been the community’s response to these expenditures?
There has been significant concern regarding financial accountability, leading to calls for external audits and discussions of stricter spending control measures.
What recent changes are being considered in response to financial oversight issues?
Discussions regarding future restrictions on travel funded by the district’s general fund and an overall increase in financial oversight are being considered.
Key Features of the Reported Spending
| Expense Category | Total Amount Spent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Meals | $60,781 (over $500) | Includes notable restaurant expenses |
| Hotel Stays | $138,919 | 112 principals attended a conference |
| Entertainment | $3,300 | Charge at ax-throwing entertainment complex |
| Miscellaneous | Varied | Chocolates and other purchases |
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County Schools Spending Report
- Wikipedia: Fayette County, Kentucky
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County Education News
- Google Search: Fayette County Public Schools spending
- WTVQ: Fayette County Schools Spending Statement
- Google Scholar: Fayette County Public Schools budget
- Fox56 News: Fayette County Schools Budget Crisis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education in the United States
- Lex18: Fayette County Schools Budget Solutions
- Google News: Fayette County Public Schools
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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