A proposed dirt racetrack in McPherson County faced significant opposition during a recent Board of County Commissioners meeting, leading to its disapproval by the planning board. The applicant, Miss Barta, sought a special use permit for the track, initially intended for private use but later suggested for public events.

The planning board's decision to deny the request came after a thorough review, with a vote of 7 to 1 against the racetrack. Concerns from local residents were voiced during the public comment section, highlighting issues of increased traffic, noise, and potential safety hazards. One resident, Tammy Schrop, expressed worries about the impact on her family, particularly regarding her son’s safety due to the heightened traffic and noise levels associated with the racetrack.

Despite the applicant's claims of hosting only private events, residents reported instances of charging fees for access, raising questions about compliance with zoning regulations. The board clarified that while private use of land is not regulated, the request for special use was specifically to allow commercial events, which was not approved.

The meeting underscored the community's apprehensions about the racetrack's implications for local safety and quality of life, as the board prepares to deliberate on the next steps regarding the special use request.