STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) – The Sturgis City Council met for their first meeting in February Tuesday night and on the agenda was a host services agreement for a controversial flat track race proposed for this year’s rally.
The proposed contract is between American Flat Track Events and the City of Sturgis.
Dubbed the Spirit of Sturgis, the race would take place downtown Sturgis on the final day of the 2024 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which is Sunday, August 11th.
Mayor Mark Carstensen describes the host agreement.
The race has drawn criticism from some who worry the city may not see a profit from the event. The cost of putting on the event for the city is estimated at nearly $654,000 per year in a five year contract. Mayor Mark Carstensen says the hope is that cost would be offset by sponsorships and the fact the Fox Television Network has reportedly picked up the race.
Sturgis Councilor Mike Bachand says the potential income for the city due to this event could be substantial.
However, some councilors had some questions and concerns about the contract. Among them, Aaron Jordan.
Jordan moved to table taking action on the contract so they could get some clarity and possibly rework it. The council agreed and it was a unanimous vote to table it.
The council also discussed setting goals and objectives for 2024.
Among the unfinished 2023 goals that carry over into 2024 include realizing residential development at the Richards Property, making preparations for the comprehensive plan, and updating the city’s administrative policies and procedures manual.
New goals for 2024 include the American Flat Tracker race and garnering sponsorships for it, begin negotiations to secure sponsorship contracts for the 85th Rally as well as renegotiating the Harley-Davidson contract, implementing construction projects off Avalanche Road, and to begin negotiations with the National Guard for a relocation plan from City Property just off I-90’s Exit 30.