[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz announced the appointment of Kyle Gustafson to serve as the Minnesota Racing Commission Executive Director. Gustafson will replace Charlene Briner, who has been serving as the commission’s interim executive director.

“I’m grateful to have Kyle Gustafson join our team and step up to this important position,” said Governor Walz. “His leadership in state government and his passion for racing will serve him well as he assumes this new role.”

“Kyle Gustafson understands the importance of having a wide array of voices from across the racing community at the table,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “His leadership and commitment to engaging tribes and Minnesota’s diverse communities will be a great asset for the commission and our state. I am also deeply grateful to Charlene Briner for her long service to Minnesota and for stepping up to serve as interim executive director.”

“I appreciate the opportunity from the Walz-Flanagan administration to support the Racing Commission’s goals,” said Kyle Gustafson. “I look forward to working with the commissioners and staff to maintain Minnesota’s reputation for integrity and safety in horse racing and to promote the state’s horse racing and breeding industry.”

Gustafson is the interim director of the Property Tax Division at the Minnesota Department of Revenue, which oversees the fair and equitable administration of the property tax system in the state.?Previously, Gustafson was a supervising attorney in the department's Appeals and Legal Services Division, where he provided legal analysis and assisted with the agency’s legislative and rulemaking efforts. He began his career in state service as an Assistant Attorney General with the Minnesota Attorney General's Office and litigated cases on behalf of the Department of Revenue and Department of Public Safety.?Gustafson earned his B.A. from Hamline University and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law. Gustafson is a lifelong fan of horseracing and enjoys spending days at the track with his family.

About the Minnesota Racing Commission

The Minnesota Racing Commission ensures the integrity of horse racing and card playing, oversees the proper distribution of funds back into the industry, and provides for the safety and welfare of the human and equine participants. Additionally, the commission works to promote the horse racing and breeding industry in Minnesota in order to provide economic stimulus. More information about the work of the Minnesota Racing Commission can be found on its website.