The state Racing Commission, in a meeting filled with arguments, has decided to ask the Legislative Council to consider its proposals covering payouts to horse breeders.

The new general manager of the Fargo horse park, Heather Benson, agreed to help mediate disputes among commissioners, breeders and the state racing director. She recommended Monday that members of the Thoroughbred Association, Quarter Horse Association and Harness Racing Association hold formal meetings and take formal votes on issues.

"Democracy works," Benson said.

The rules involve, among other things, whether the commission's breeders' fund dollars can be used for purses at the state's two race tracks.

Legislators rejected the rules last month. They also voted to work on a bill that would abolish the Racing Commission, saying they are tired of infighting among its commissioners, its director and the state's horsemen.

Commission Chairman Jim Clement accused Racing Director Randy Blaseg on Monday of failing to inform him that lawmakers had asked the commission earlier to consult with opponents of the rules. He said Blaseg "has his own hidden agenda to deal with those who were adamantly opposed."

Blaseg said he had informed everyone in writing.

Curt Rohweder of Wishek, a thoroughbred breeder, said Blaseg is doing a good job and complained that Clement did not represent the commission majority at a meeting last month. He also said some North Dakota horsemen are trying to destroy the racing industry.

Horse breeder Bill Maulding of Montpelier and Thoroughbred Association Vice President Chris Moen of Mayville echoed Rohweder's allegation. Some of them referred to the "Mandan mafia."

Commissioner T.L. Secrest of Hettinger accused Clement, a Mandan veterinarian currently working for the state Agriculture Department, of seeking to abolish the Racing Commission so its duties could be moved to his department. Clement denied that.

-Associated Press