I read with dismay the possibility that the organized rally
event may have to be cancelled due to lack of available law
enforcement and workmans comp insurance requirement.
I read with dismay the possibility that the organized rally event may have to be cancelled due to lack of available law enforcement and workmans comp insurance requirement. It is important to recognize that without the patronage from the tens of thousands of motorcyclists, many local merchants and nonprofits will be hurt financially.
We also need to keep in mind that cancelling the rally will not prevent the bikers from showing up anyway. The only difference is there will be absolutely no additional vendor sales tax and license revenue. The city will have to pay the security expenses regardless!
Let us not be penny wise and pound foolish. It is time for the city and HIRC to work together to arrange major sponsorship (such as Harley-Davidson) for this event. The bikers are coming anyway.
Use a portion of the airport for drag racing and vendors in order to expand the rally and take the pressure off of downtown. Get creative!
Our elected leaders must find a way to benefit from this event and not squander what can otherwise be an excellent source of revenue.
Neal R. Zook,
Hollister
