Kentucky Downs searches in Tennessee to staff new Mint Gaming Hall

“Ramping up” hiring efforts, the new gaming hall at Kentucky Downs hosted a job fair in Sumner County this week.

John Wholihan, director of marketing at Kentucky Downs, said there was a good turnout with quality candidates at Public Square in Gallatin, and there are still open positions available at the upcoming Mint Gaming Hall.

Wholihan added that Kentucky Downs will hire — including for food and beverage, security, housekeeping and gaming jobs, among others — up to the opening date and beyond, based on demand. He also highlighted opportunities for promotions from within.

The Mint Gaming Hall is slated for an early September opening, offering a new 30,000 square-foot historical horse racing gaming hall. The addition will mean another 600 new historical horse racing terminals and amenities, including a multimedia Center Bar and entertainment stage, according to a Kentucky Downs news release.

The opening date hasn’t been determined as of press time.

The new hall will sit on the cusp of Tennessee, near the state line in Franklin, Kentucky, located about 30 minutes north of Nashville off of Interstate 65.

“We are looking forward to being bigger and better than ever in September, while remaining focused on current safety protocols for the safety and health of our guests and team,” said Ted Nicholson, Kentucky Downs’ senior vice president and general manager. “We are always seeking ways to enhance the guest experience and can’t wait to provide more food and beverage offerings, more live music and more entertainment.”

The Mint Gaming Hall launches a multi-phase expansion that initiated last year. The entire project is expected to be complete in 2021, according to the release. The expansion adds more than 75 jobs.

Wholihan said Kentucky Downs is searching for candidates from Nashville to Bowling Green, though it’s unclear whether the company will hold another job fair in Sumner County.

Still, those who missed the job fair in Gallatin and are interested in applying for openings can find more information on the Mint Gaming Hall’s and Kentucky Downs’ websites.

Wholihan said the jobs can serve as a “great opportunity for people” interested in cultivating new skills and launching careers in hospitality.

Kelly Fisher can be reached at KPFisher@gannett.com, 615-801-3866 or on Twitter at@KellyPFisher.