| Approve planned motor sports park |
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Posted: Wednesday, May 5, 2010 12:12 pm
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A proposed $2.7 million motor sports park in northern Rice County is a good idea and should get a green light Thursday from the Rice County Planning Commission.
In order for the project to move forward the planning commission needs to approve an ordinance change that would allow motor sports in an area currently designated as a highway commercial district. The commission would in essence be approving a conditional-use permit for the area off Interstate 35.
Motor sports are allowed in agricultural and urban-reserve zoning districts. The new maximum noise level would conform to state noise pollution standards.
Much public debate has ensued since the project was first pitched to the county by Lee Theis, Motokazie owner and president.
At issue are concerns from neighbors about noise, lights and what some perceive as rowdy visitors to the area. Quality of life and property values also have been discussed at public meetings.
All of the issues and concerns have been discussed and we think the economic benefits of the motor sports park outweigh the concerns.
Since the proposed motor sports park is in close proximity to the interstate, the residents in the area already have noise to contend with.
Motokazie has outlined plans that show the park owners plan to help mitigate some of the noise associated with the racing.
The planning commission has a tough task at hand: Making a decision on a heated issue. But that’s why they got on the commission. To help tackle tough community issues and to make Rice County a better place to live, work and play for all of us.
The Rice County Board of Commissioners voted 3-2 more than a month ago to have the planning commission consider the change.
Now that all the dust has settled, it’s time for the planning commission to approve the ordinance change and welcome Motokazie to Rice County. |
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