TOOELE COUNTY, Utah - Uncertainty about the future of the Miller Motorsports Park is causing concern for racers who use the track and businesses who depend on it.
On Tuesday, a group of about 15 stakeholders met to express their frustration about last week’s court ruling vacating the sale of the property.
County commissioners are still working out details of a short-term solution to keep the park open, but racers worry the delay and unknown future will drive events away from Utah.
“I have clients right now that are calling me for my schedule,” said RaceCo general manager Rod Kujaczynski. “So these businessmen, these people who are enjoying this facility personally, can schedule those dates on their business calendar.”
Last week’s court ruling canceled the sale of the property to Chinese investment company Mitime, who’d committed to upgrading the facility. It’s a deal business owners supported. They’re frustrated Las Vegas real estate developer Andrew Cartwright challenged the decision in court.
“I firmly believe that [county commissioners] made the correct decision,” said local racing company owner Ian Lacy. “But having to rush through the process, in a time scale that might now be normal for government, maybe led to the judge’s decision.”
Commissioner Shawn Milne said the long-term plan is still to put the property back out for bid. Cartwright has already put in a $28 million bid.
But business owners say to them it’s about more than just cash money, it’s about investing in the community.
“Many of us have built our livelihood around it, and it’s more than just a track to us,” said Trackstar Racing owner Kelly Rees. “It’s where my family spent the summer. It’s where my sons learned to ride motorcycles.”
The business owners have rallied together to show support, hopefully keeping events going at the sports park. They’ve created a website, www.savemmpnow.com.
