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Drag strip opponents say their livelihood hinges on decision

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By JEAN ORTIZ / Lincoln Journal Star

Thursday, Jul 26, 2007 - 12:08:01 am CDT

Jane Baumgartner’s fears spill out as she strolls along the dusty, rural road.

It’s not just about noise, she says on a recent afternoon pointing out the tree lines and cornfields across the road from her home where uncertainty reigns.

If motor sports entrepreneur Greg Sanford has his way, those 133 acres would be transformed into a quarter-mile drag strip.

Story Photo
Jane Baumgartner talks with the Journal Star near the property that will house a proposed drag strip near her family's property north of Lincoln. Baumgartner is concerned about safety, noise and resource issues, should the drag strip be implemented. (Jill Peitzmeier)

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Supporters: Drag strip would benefit county, city
Public hearing Tuesday

What: Public hearing for proposed quarter-mile drag strip east of U.S. 77 between Branched Oak and Davey roads.

When: Tuesday beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Where: First-floor of the County-City Building in Room 112.
  • Sign-in sheets will be available beginning at 10:30 a.m. and will allow attendants to indicate whether they are for, against or neutral on the issue.
  • Testimony will be limited to four minutes per person.
  • Those who plan to give testimony requiring special video or audio equipment will need to coordinate in advance with 5 City-TV at 441-6688 or 441-7432.

The idea has left Baumgartner and her husband — who have the closest home to the site — uneasy. So, too, are some others who live along the rolling countryside about five miles north of Lincoln.

Baumgartner said they are the ones who really have something at stake in all this.

“This is where we live,” she said. “This is our life.”

Traffic, pollution, lighting and even water resources make her list of consequences or needs that could arise should the motor sports plans get the green light.

She has been among the letter writers and the meeting attendees, working to drive home the belief that a drag strip just doesn’t belong in a rural neighborhood.

Baumgartner, who homeschools her six children, also has used the situation to teach how local government works.

She admits, she’s learned some herself.

“We’ve learned more about drag strips than we ever wanted to learn,” she said with a smile.

The County Board is set to consider Sanford’s proposal Tuesday, and could possibly issue a decision that day. The public hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m. in the first-floor hearing room in the County-City Building.

The board’s recent approval of restrictions for any motor sports project, including Sanford’s, is a step in the right direction, though it doesn’t necessarily make her more optimistic, Baumgartner said.

“I’m a little nervous,” she said. “It will have potentially a huge impact on our lives.”

Clifford Walstrom, who lives west of Sanford’s land — across the highway — is eager for a decision as well.

“I wished they would make up their mind, one way or another,” he said.

Standing in his garden with a clear view of Sanford’s land, on a break from picking cucumbers and zucchini, Walstrom said his biggest concern would probably be noise.

With a corner property, he’s seen his share of trash left behind by motorists passing through the area and he’s worried more visitors could mean he’d spend more time picking up their discards.

It’s the kind of change he’s not ready to see, said Walstrom, who has lived on the land for nearly 60 years.

“God, I’d hate to think of them making that noise,” he said.

Noise. Dust. Light. Litter.

Like Jane Baumgartner, neighbor Phil Pfeiffer said his concerns are varied.

He’s not opposed to racing, he said. He grew up around stock car racing and it was fun, he admits.

Supporters of the project have touted benefits they see, including millions of dollars flowing into the local economy — figures Pfeiffer said he believes are “very trumped up.”

But not much has been said about the real costs of such a project, he said.

“I think there’s a lot more to lose if they build it,” he said.

He’s proud of the effort the opposition has led and believes they are fighting for the very things Lancaster County is all about.

And though he will carry a sense of cautious optimism into Tuesday’s hearing, with motor sports regulations now in place, he knows, no matter what the board decides on Sanford’s project, the story and his fight are not yet done.

“If they said no, he still owns that land,” Pfeiffer said. “As long as he owns that land, I can’t rest.”

Reach Jean Ortiz at 473-7107 or jortiz@journalstar.com.


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nitemare wrote on July 26, 2007 3:32 am:
" I don't know why thses people are so worried. The "commission" set the guidelines so tight, there is no way Mr. Sanford can persue this site. If he is going to build it the way he wants, and the way it needs to be done, our fearless city leaders have pinched down so hard, it won't work here. Greg will be, and has been forced to find another location. As far as the "big" revenue, not at first. It has to have time and room to grow. They have conveniently limited this also. Thanks again Lincoln, for tossing another good opportunity out the window!! "
Rick wrote on July 26, 2007 5:41 am:
" Just put it on the next ballot and let the people of the county vote on it. Then you will know what it is like when other people tell you what you can do with property that you own. Like Lincoln did with the smoking ban. "
Big Chief wrote on July 26, 2007 7:08 am:
" Neighbors in this area should be looking at ways to turn this drag strip into an opportunity. Maybe a concession stand across the road from the facility; a campground; extra parking; craft shop etc. Maybe the neighbors who are objecting now could make enough money from the drag strip to buy property that is so far out in the sticks that development would never be a concern. "
not_Don_Garlits wrote on July 26, 2007 7:09 am:
" go play little house on the cornfield somewhere further away from town. Cities grow. Lincoln is very poor at it.. but it will still grow. If she wants to complain about something, complain about what they did to North 40. It's a scientific fact that open fields spill massive amounts of nitrogen in the air which is propelling the Greenhouse effect and global warming at an alarming rate. If they put in a drag strip, there's 133 acres less of tilled farm ground to spew nitrogen in the atmosphere. Therefore, a drag strip would be saving the planet. "
Bill wrote on July 26, 2007 7:11 am:
" If this drag strip is such a money maker, why did Scribner let it go and why aren't there communities fighting for it by offering incentives to get it. Why, because everyone knows it's one of those things you'll go to, but you don't want in your own backyard. "
One of Many Supporters wrote on July 26, 2007 7:12 am:
" I agree with Rick. Let the people who live, work, and pay taxes in the county decide. "
Honest John wrote on July 26, 2007 7:12 am:
" It was only a matter of time before the journal star printed a smear story like this against the drag strip. Its very clearly devided who wants the drag strip and who doesn't .......... we aren't children and it doesn't take a genius to figure this out. It has nothing to do with impact, pollution, or anything of that real nature. Its who is doing it, who's idea it was first, and what type of people attend these events and are they the type that would vote for me if I ran for office? "
Support wrote on July 26, 2007 7:21 am:
" I personally could care less about drag racing, but the study done by qualified professionals at UNL says real dollars will be brought into our economy because of this. I don't know how you could say no to that. I understand these people's concerns, but as the article states - they live 5 miles outside of Lincoln, so what are they going to do when Lincoln expands out that way? It won't be long --- I'm sure they will be the first ones to sell their farms for a big chunck of money. We are talking maybe 5-10 people holding this up which is rediculous in my mind. "
Ghost wrote on July 26, 2007 7:44 am:
" Wouldn't this drag strip be no different than the race tracks of Eagle Raceway and I-80 Speedway? Why is it that it seems like that when ever there is a chance for the city of Lincoln to make some money they are against it, but if it is to spend money then they are all for it? "
Husker Neocon wrote on July 26, 2007 7:48 am:
" This woman doesnt own the property. If people want isolation, they should move to the sandhills, not 5 miles north of a city of 230,000. Build it and bring in the money! "
brian in lincoln wrote on July 26, 2007 7:53 am:
" Why does everything go back to the smoking ban? Get over this already ! Racing cars out in the country, where you need a permit to do so and to develop is so far from the same as the health dept telling a business that an unhealthy act, which affects EVERYONE is not going to be allowed. I wonder how you think that just because you own the land, it is open to do what ever you want on it. Do you think they would allow you to pile up and stack of tires and burn them non-stop just because you own the land? No, I doubt it. "
Mrs. Johnson wrote on July 26, 2007 8:00 am:
" Rick...you might own your land, but you don't own the lives of those around your land. We have laws for that very reason. To protect ourselves from those who could give a hoot about the rights of others. Stay out of the smoke and you'll think better. "
CS wrote on July 26, 2007 8:17 am:
" They went to the zoning meeting, the lodged their complaint. They have, within the law, done all they can. They didn't buy peace, they didn't buy view, and they didn't buy quiet. If their realtor sold them that then he or she promised something that they didn't have a right to sell. When you live on the edge of a developing area you run the risk of this happening and Im more offended by the extreme minority thinking they can hold an idyllic view of 'their' lifestyle over the fiscal needs of Lincoln to expand its tax base. "
Jamie wrote on July 26, 2007 8:24 am:
" Livelihood henges on decision? What livelihood? Are there farming operations going on there, or just a few people living in the middle of cornfield? Our fair city sits in the middle of a huge cornfield. There is no shortage of space all over this county to live. Heaven forbid, a few chickens and cows might hear a car engine and be offended. Not much said about the real cost? It's a private venture, not a public one, so that information is nobody's business except the owners, so those arguments don't hold any water at all. Besides, if the road needed expanded down the road, it would be all the citizens of this county paying for it, not a handfull of land owners. And if the road needed expanded, that would imply lot's of dollars are flowing into the community, which the city/county so desperatly need. Bottom line...Will the handfull of landowners out there combined, match the 10's of millions of dollars this venture could bring in, or not. The answer is a resounding NO. Progress means sometimes, unfortantly, people must get out of the way. Do we benefit the few, who have plenty of options to stay in the county, reguardless if it's there, or somewhere else, and deny the county and city much needed tax dollars all of those landowners combined will never generate, or do we progress, and make this a community that makes good business decisions, and doesn't stick the taxpayers with higher tax bills along the way. BTW, I know drag racing goes on along hwy 77 quite often.(Those people should already be used to it.) I have been there to witness it many times. These people race, sometimes before, sometimes well after midnight. Racing is going to happen. This turns the arguments into a safety factor now. Either they have a place to go race, or they race on our streets..putting others at risk. This overall decision seems like a no brainer..but unfortantly, most on the county board seem to have no brains, as of late. "
Country Life wrote on July 26, 2007 8:26 am:
" I agree, I do not think that this drag strip is necessary at the site they are looking at. Why doesn’t Mr. Sanford build the drag strip next to his house and see how his neighbors would react to a drag strip in their backyard. People think it is in the country and no one lives there. Kind of like when I drive to my house by Davey and I see dishwasher’s, old sofa's and other junk that the town people won’t pay the $10.00 needed to go the junk yard and dispose of it properly. I guess all I am trying to say is that people do live in the country! Why do town people assume that no one lives in the country and they can use the land for whatever they choose? Yes, is it 10 miles north of town but some people do call that their home. I guess all I am trying to say is that people do live in the country and please respect them! "
Karl wrote on July 26, 2007 8:31 am:
" Oh, but where will the rednecks go on Saturday night? Actually, if it will get them off of O St., I'm all for it. "
Greg wrote on July 26, 2007 8:35 am:
" This is CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!! These people are talking about this cranging their way of life???? GIVE US A BREAK!!!! The Racing schedule will be what, 20 days a year at most?? Look at the FACTS.... It will bring Jobs and money to our Economy that will benefit EVERYONE!!! As we lose jobs at Goodyear etc, it seems to this Lancaster county resident that we should be rolling out the red carpet for ANYONE who is willing to make that investment here!!! I am EMBARASSED that we would be giving Mr. Sanford such a hard time for him to want to invest here!!! I think it is ALL our duties to call and support investment in our part of Nebraska!!! Greg in Lincoln "
thank you Greg wrote on July 26, 2007 8:52 am:
" Greg you have hit it right on the head. The strip doesn't run every day of the year. If those people have a problem then plan to go somewhere else those 20 days of the year. "
RStuart wrote on July 26, 2007 8:57 am:
" Dictionary.com defines 'livelihood' as 'Means of support; subsistence.' Nowhere in this story does it mention the threat to Jane Baumgartner’s subsistence. She merely whines about 'traffic, pollution, lighting...' Her complaints are just more 'NIMBY' fears and nothing more. Let's all just stick our heads in the sand and let the world go by. Sheesh! "
Get over it wrote on July 26, 2007 9:07 am:
" Even though Ms. Baumgartner doesn't agree with having a new drag strip right next to her house, its the thing of the future right now. Lincoln is a growing community. This is why I don't live on a farm because one of these days, its going to get developed into something big. At least Ms. Baumgartner's area won't turn into another Wal-Mart. "
Good one wrote on July 26, 2007 9:12 am:
" I love how the LJS is pulling at the heart strings by putting a picture of a poor Quaker looking woman in the article. "
Hattie wrote on July 26, 2007 9:17 am:
" I live very close to the site and am not worried about the noise. If you listen on a calm night, you can hear the Harleys roar as they leave Davey now. That is at least ONCE per week. Do you hear any of the Davey Residents Complaining, NO. This is all about a normally complaining couple of folk that are against the enterprise. I do not think that Mr. Sanford is the correct business person to run this, however, he is the only one to step up to the plate and try. Give him the opportunity. If it fails, then it gets turned back to the Corn Meadows of Northern Lancaster County. "
Sarah Parker wrote on July 26, 2007 9:21 am:
" The land for the proposed drag strip is also very pretty. It would be better to put the drag strip on land that is already industrialized and ugly. I think a better place would be north of hwy 6 by 84th st. "
Livelihood? wrote on July 26, 2007 9:34 am:
" The title of this article is misleading. These people are talking about their life style, not their livelihood being affected. I was wondering how a drag strip was going to effect their ability to make a living, now it know that it doesn't. "
Could be worse wrote on July 26, 2007 9:34 am:
" I'd rather have a drag strip than a sewage treatment plant across the road, as I'm facing. Trade ya! "
What? wrote on July 26, 2007 9:38 am:
" The lady featured in the article doesn't even own any land out there? You got to be kidding me. "
Relax wrote on July 26, 2007 9:43 am:
" Are these people under the impression that the drag strip will operate 24/7 365 days a year? It would probably run at most two days a week, throughout the summer. Let’s say 16 weekends, so that’s 32 days. That leaves 333 days of quiet country life a year. "
Lex wrote on July 26, 2007 9:56 am:
" A race track used 20 days a year is going to bring in millions to Lincoln??? I don't think so. I know several nice race tracks, not strip tracks, and they do very little at bringing in money for their towns. Lincoln needs to grow with business & industry for jobs! If this were to be a nice big oval race track, yeh it might bring in some money, but not this strip track. The tracks I know have noise barriers, yet you can hear that constant roar for miles & miles away. I agree with the lady and residents near, I wouldn't want that strip there either. "
rac wrote on July 26, 2007 9:59 am:
" I would build a huge trailer park right next to the drag-strip, that would be a guaranteed money-maker! Yeehaww! "
Dragmaster wrote on July 26, 2007 10:01 am:
" I just wanted to comment on the people who live in that area of the proposed track, get used to going to planning commission meetings and arguing for your land, because you only live a small area from development, you will be fighting for the rest of your life if you think, that since this is obviously dead that your peaceful area is protected, the city is growing, at a slower rate then Omaha but your lucky if this was omaha, you would have moved long before now, just count your blessings and maybe think about selling in the near future if you dont like fighting for your land. "
Husker Girl wrote on July 26, 2007 10:07 am:
" I bet NONE of you that are in support of this live near it. You can point the NIMBY finger at Jane Baumgartner, but you would be the same way! It's so easy to to cast blame and scream that she and the county don't want economic development, when you live 10+ miles from this site. I don't see you all volunteering land near your house for a drag strip! And again, to beat a dead horse, if it's such an economic boon to a town, why did it fail in Scribner, and why isn't Scribner a boomtown?!? As soon as Sanford gets permission to build anywhere, he's going to be asking for government assistance. You all will be supporting his venture with your tax dollars. That is a guarantee. "
Susan wrote on July 26, 2007 10:08 am:
" All you pro-business folks, c'mon out to my place in Cass County next Sunday and we'll sit on my front porch and talk about it while the Greenwood I-80 races are running about 4 miles away. Oh, wait, I forgot, you won't be able to hear what anybody else is saying because of the noise of the racecars! If you had a neighbor who made so much noise every weekend that it kept you awake even with all the windows and doors closed, you'd call the cops. "
Cam man wrote on July 26, 2007 10:10 am:
" The people who live out there need to get a life and a clue! The track is not going to happen there because of the BullS**t rules that have been put in place! Now Lincoln will lose money to someone else as usual! Thanks to our County board for listening to the few and not the many. How much did you get paid for this? You all stink! Sorry Mr. Sanford! "
Bogus worries wrote on July 26, 2007 10:10 am:
" Drag strips are paved. No dust. They don't water the track like a circle track, so no water use worries. The opponents have had to resort to emotional worries instead of facts. The last hearing started off with a "trail of tears" by the opponents. It was supposed to be about the ordinance and the facts, but BOB Workman let them run on and on. BUT if you were for getting a reasonable ordinance, everyone had to stay strictly on the subject. The Board orchastrated this to discourage any development north of I-80. Congrats to BOB. YOu kept your promises to the people out there. Now that you are on the record saying you haven't met with them, I'll be looking for the ties that will bind you. Your lies will catch up to you Mr. Workman. "
T wrote on July 26, 2007 10:12 am:
" I have lived outside city limits, not quite that far, but still outside. Funny how they complain about this, but where were they when a Walmart was being planned for out SoutWest? I didn't hear them speaking up for us out there. People were actually relocated because of that. I cannot believe that a drag strip will create massive amounts of light and litter that will far exceed those businesses. Wouldn't want to have anything that will affect the people around it. "
Roger wrote on July 26, 2007 10:20 am:
" I will be so happy when this drag-strip is denied. I originally couldn't have cared less, but after reading all the extremely selfish attidudes of "supporters" (for what, about a year now?), it has really soured me on it. Also much more fun to listen to all of them whine about it. "
Steph wrote on July 26, 2007 10:36 am:
" Greg, where did you come up with 20 days a year. Look at the application for well over 60. A third of those are low economic impact Friday night drags where the locals race and do not contribute to anyone but Greg's economy. Jobs, minimum wage/part-time, wow big impact on Lincoln. economy. "
Jack wrote on July 26, 2007 10:38 am:
" Wish Mr. Sanford would give this up.....take your money to Gage county where you'll be greeted with open arms. Never ceases to amaze me how Lincoln / Lancaster County continue to ignore revenue opportuniites, can't see the forest thru the trees. Oh, and don't forget, It's illegal to have any fun here, unless it involves NU football....Ho Hum.Yawn. "
John B wrote on July 26, 2007 10:38 am:
" Can't vote on everything. That is what the elected officials job is. "
Patrick wrote on July 26, 2007 10:42 am:
" This will not be a widespread change for the booming metro of Lincoln. Maybe there should be more focus on downtown updates or a new music venue somewhere. Think of the people who would attend these race events. It will probably be a small part of Lincoln and consist primarily of those who live outside the town. Also, Lincoln already has enough of a redneck/small town image, so why add to it with this thing? Move it farther out. If people really like watching cars drive and make a lot of noise, they can drive further. And what's with the ridiculous comparisons between a set drag racing track and drag racing done illegally on public roads? That makes no sense. Be logical here, people. Also, don't attack the people who live in the area for complaining. They have every right to do so. They have probably owned the land for a long time, not expecting to have a redneck drag racing festival next door at some point. And they shouldn't have to change their living habits just to accomodate a ridiculous race track (like going somewhere else the 20 days a year when there is a race). It will bring lots of trash to the roads out there, so hopefully the drag racing venue will have crews set to go clean if this thing passes. "
PA Reifschneider wrote on July 26, 2007 10:45 am:
" 20 days of revenue is point well made. I've seen quiet little Sturgis SD survive quite nicely after 7 days of "bikers" - they survive quite well with that revenue left behind and happy to have it. Noise - the sound of life. Country mouse ideal, but needs to get real. "
To Not Don wrote on July 26, 2007 10:48 am:
" Likewise, go play your little sport next to an industrial area and leave those of us who have been living here 30+ years alone. Sanford should've done a little more research before buying that land. You can't just re-zone any land you want for any reason. "
Cutlass Girl wrote on July 26, 2007 10:50 am:
" I say bring on the track! GREG...I agree 100%!! My boyfriend is a racer...he would love if a track comes to Lincoln. Otherwise, he'd have to drive to Scribner or Kearney! Let boys be boys, let them have their fun for those 20 days! And for female racers...you all rock! "
Amazingly Short-sighted wrote on July 26, 2007 10:51 am:
" OH COME ON!!! The Journal Star printed a positive story about the drag strip and it is running today too. Hello?We have every right to hear both sides of the story and the LJS did that. The people who live near the strip have deserve an opportunity to share their perspective, just like the supporters are sharing their perspectives in the other article. "
Comm UnSense wrote on July 26, 2007 10:53 am:
" Stick a fork in it - this deal is done. A small community with some forward thinking leaders could make a killing on this. C'mon Hickman, give Sanford a call. Make him an offer he can't refuse. There's room west of town. We couldn't hear the races over the train whistles anyway. "
Not a race fan wrote on July 26, 2007 10:54 am:
" So if you say Mrs Baumgartner is whining, what are you doing when you comment about not getting the strip approved? She has a right to voice her opinion because she lives in the area and will be affected. Do you? "
Kim wrote on July 26, 2007 11:00 am:
" You people telling her to get over it, move, or go somewhere else obviously are selfish, uncompassionate individuals and I bet if the tables were turned, you wouldn't want this thing built next to your property either! "
Lee wrote on July 26, 2007 11:02 am:
" I feel for Mr. Sanford. All he wants to do is to bring more revenue into the county which it needs badly. I hope that within 3 yrs. a developer comes in & crowds out everyone with the side by side housing. Then lets see what the whiners say about that, oh I forgot they will protest! "
shelby wrote on July 26, 2007 11:08 am:
" It would be a great sport to have and the money it would bring in! The kids teenage are so excited to have something like this come so close we need to have sports of all kinds and for all ages. When you home school you try and keep your kids away from reality and they need to be involved because when they are gone and on there own its a rude awakening. Hope to hear when this project will begin! Go Dragsters!!!! :))))) "
Darren wrote on July 26, 2007 11:11 am:
" Word is Greg is going to drop his request because the county purposely wrote the restrictions to make sure he couldn't build in the location he wanted to. He plans to sell the land to the county so that they can expand the lancaster county dump to the other side of highway 77. I bet this woman will be thrilled to have all of our garbage blowing in her yard. Trust me lady the county won't budge for you at that point "
Are you kidding me|? wrote on July 26, 2007 11:22 am:
" First, Country Life - you need to get a life. Town people? We aren't on Little House on the Prairie. If you live only 10 miles outside a growing CITY - not Town of 250,000 people, sooner or later the growth will hit your "country life." Study upon study has been done on the effect this will have on our city's economy and maybe people should really look at the money spent on drag racing. The drag strip creates a safe place for teenagers to race their cars - which by the way they are going to do anyway - as well as something fun to do for racing fans on the weekend. I am pretty sure professional drag racers are far from the "rednecks" you seem to think they are. These racers come from all over the Midwest, and our hotels and restaurants and businesses also prosper. Do you really think that Eagle Raceway and I-80 Speedway aren't bringing in money? It's 3-4 months out of the year and only on the weekends. Let him build it already and quit being so naive and selfish! "
Matt wrote on July 26, 2007 11:27 am:
" A drag strip will save the planet? Can you please share your scientific facts to back this up? I really don't care about this issue, but you just confirmed my image of a typical drag strip fan. Git R Done! "
pck wrote on July 26, 2007 11:47 am:
" right is right....Let the people vote for it. I mean why do we even need a drag strip. Now, that makes alot of sense..........NOT "
Dano wrote on July 26, 2007 12:03 pm:
" There is no metion of how this affects anyone's livelihood. Quality of life maybe, but I don;t see where this shows anyone, losing the way they make there living. The only people that lose out the people of Lincoln and Lancaster county. They lose on a new source of entertainment (because we have so much of that - no concerts, weak state fair, baseball, football, movies, and an outdoor mall that is awesome in the fall and winter.) The people lose on new erevenues to help close the budget. They lose on the part-time and full-time jobs it provides. They lose on the chance to ealrn or participate in a new hobby or sport. Even if this is denied, what happens if they want to develop the land the next time. They going to fight that as well,. Probably. If you don;t want to be close to city life and the things it offers, move or buy further away from a city. I love the country life and I live on a highway. I am not complaining everytime someone drives their motorcycle or hotrod out to cruise down the highway. I am not complaining they want to develop HWY 77 and warlick. Just because a few don;t like, doesn't mena the rest of the city and county should suffer from it. Eagle probably loves the fact that Lincoln would never allow a race track near the city. They rake in every weekend out there. This wouldn't be any different. "
Here We Go Again wrote on July 26, 2007 12:06 pm:
" This plan would benefit more people than it would harm. Sure it'd be sad if these people felt that they HAD to leave their homes of however long they've been there. But several of you have mentioned that it would have been pretty delusional of them to think that they wouldn't eventually be "eaten up" by Lincoln to begin with. I do agree that these people could actually turn a profit with the introduction of the drag strip. I don't understand why those making the decision to let Mr. Sanford pursue this would place the concerns of relatively few over the potential of benefit for the entire County. People from this area drive to Kansas City for a day or two of racing- do they honestly believe that people wouldn't travel to this site for the same thing?? "
Jane's Fears wrote on July 26, 2007 12:17 pm:
" Oh WOW!! Lets worry about the unrealistic fears of a few spilling out, who writes this junk?? What about the spilling tax revenue dollars for all of Lancaster County, I'm frankly a little worried about Jane's fears spilling out on whatever road she is standing on, isn't that littering??!!!, lets get the county board to pass an ordiance on where you can spill your fears in rural lancaster county, how loud those fears will be when they are spilled, what hours of the day can you spill your fears, and who is responsible for cleanup of the spilled fears?? I'm sorry, I tend to babble sometimes when common sense has been thrown out the window, but to tell you the truth, THIS WHOLE THING IS JUST PLAIN RIDICULOUS!!!! Good luck elsewhere Greg, hope this mess hasn't changed your mind on bringing some more recreation/sporting events to the area. Sincerely, Fredulous Maximus Performance "
Sick of the NIMBY crowd... wrote on July 26, 2007 12:22 pm:
" I sure hope that is true about the garbage dump... "
Lets move forward!! wrote on July 26, 2007 12:34 pm:
" There are many things here that get drug out and bashed when most dont have the answers. #1 The Scribner site was closed partly due to the road yes, but the point why invest money into a highly agriculturaly used road that will get torn up and destroyed by heavy farm equipment and also once he invests into that road he can be heal liable for anything that happens on it, that would not be good for him or others or even the county when they have to re-do that road all the time. #2 is location The scribner site was an easy 20-30 minute drive away from hotels, parts stores or most other needs that people at a big event may need and the small town of Scribner cannot accomadate these needs unfortunately. #3 the costs to update that track are allmost unreasonable for reasons 1&2 but also by the time you do all that you may as well build a new track on a more conveniant site that is better for its users and the public. As far as the noise, Well some make it to be that you can hear nothing but blairing motor roars from miles away. Well even up at scribner the noise was never bad at all. It was reasonably quiet in the pit areas and on the way to the track from a mile away you could barely hear it, and if you were not paying attention or passing traffic or many other noises for that matter drowned it out to the point you could not hear it anyhow. I feel the research on alot of this has been shotty, one sided and only used as a reason to push out what some dont want. But once the opportunity is gone they will cry about there taxes that contiually rise. Now! the biggest thing I am tire of hearing is that all racers are is inconsiderate, rednecks and basicly we have been called scum of the earth. Well in my years I have met people of all walks of life. Mothers, fathers, Grandparents, Doctors, Lawyers and you name it all the way to teeen age kids getting there start in the sport. Anyone I know as a racer is a family oriented person that has values and morales too. We do not seek to destroy things and most are very inteligent, Yes it does take lots of knowledge and talent to build and drive these cars and do what we do. If it is so easy and stupidly simple then maybe some hipocrits should build there own cars and come win all the races so we will lose interest while you show us how dumb we are?? Lets be realistic and fair here. If this site does not work then work with us and help us find a reasonable spot that will fit the needs of a facility like this and work together, not against each other!! "
bringitin wrote on July 26, 2007 12:49 pm:
" My parents live across from a fairgrounds out in western nebraska. This fairgrounds have race's every week. I went home to see my parents the beginning of july. They had a race there that Tuesday. I was in my parent's house mind you about 100 feet from the track. I did not here the cars racing, nor did the lights of the track effect me anyway. The only time I heard anything from this area when everyone was leaving because itstarted to rain. Please bring the drag strip to lincoln, maybe then we can lower our taxes and not so many teenagers or 20's or 30's year olds would be in these auto accidents because they would have someplace to go to race. There are many people that I know in the city limits that do have race's right now. Why not let them have a track it will be safer for everyone. "
omnione wrote on July 26, 2007 12:53 pm:
" First of all, I am indifferent to this because I don't think this project will make-or-break Lincoln's economy. Though Sanford and co. can attribute Scribner's failure to a lack of a paved road leading to the site, looking at Scribner and the type of track he likes to run, this drag strip doesn't look like a money windfall like many of the supporters think it would be. I would rather have economic development on I-80 over this niche thing. However, I just wanted to point out the hypocrisies in the opponents' argument. First, the "why don't you put it your backyard" argument doesn't hold for most Lincoln residents as our "backyards" are MUCH smaller than a huge cornfield in the middle of nowhere. I live closer to the State Fair track than the county residents live to this proposed track and the noise doesn't bother me. Get some perspective here people. Also, the "you people are being selfish for wanting this strip put in our land" is probably hypocritical too. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I didn't hear any of you weep when projects like Antelope Valley, the development around SouthPointe, and growth around the city moved into rural homes. Yet, when the projects fall within proximity of YOUR land, then you speak up. Merriam-Webster defines the word selfish as "seeking or concentrating on one's own advantage, pleasure, or well-being without regard for others". If you call the drag-strip supporters selfish, then you are too by definition. Lastly, if you want to live in a peaceful rural life, then that is quite fine. However, you ought not to be shocked that development comes your way when you live so close to a 250,000-strong city. Do you guys actually think that the city should or will stop growing for you people? Phil Pfeiffer believes that they are fighting for "hey are fighting for the very things Lancaster County is all about." Ummm....Lancaster County is all about Lincoln with some rural residents surrounding the area. Simply put, don't separate city and county when it comes to growth. A county that does not have a large city that can annex communities is the ideal place for those who want a true rural lifestyle, not a place where people claim to live the rural style only to use the nearby city's resources moderately. "
drag racer wrote on July 26, 2007 12:55 pm:
" The only things that i have to say is i hear a lot of people complain about roads the taxes from the track will go to that. I want to know what people want a drag strip where we can race or us street racing down public roads and I bet that the people that are saying no to the drag strip if they have kids they are out at the street races or when they grow up they will be. GIVE US A LEGAL, SAFE PLACE TO RACE OR WE WILL STILL BE ON THE STREETS your choice. "
Not a race fan wrote on July 26, 2007 1:06 pm:
" They can have the track, just pick a better location. How about 1440 Linwood Ln? That way Greg could be close to his inestment. "
Here's an Idea... wrote on July 26, 2007 1:10 pm:
" I'd bet anything that if this had anything to do with UNL or Nebraska foolball lights, noise, nor traffic would have even been a question. It would have been given the green light a year ago. Mr. Sanford, can you say "hog farm??" You know, since it is in the "country" and they want to keep the sanctity of the rural atmosphere...that's what I'd put there! "
Dan Bays wrote on July 26, 2007 1:24 pm:
" I have a friend named Aaron and he is going to be really upset if he can't have a drag strip. "
sure pck wrote on July 26, 2007 1:33 pm:
" let us vote on it, as well as every other development in Lincoln, what's the difference? Should we now ballot every development that threatens the serenity of outlying areas and country living? That would really accomplish a lot, considering it takes upwards of a year now to approve development through the LPC. The County already has enough restrictions on development and rezoning is a nightmare. The neighbors have said their peace and been heard, not owning the property, that is the extent of their rights. If GS can build the track within the restrictions put forth I don't see how anyone could really contest that... "
Game over wrote on July 26, 2007 1:34 pm:
" I am so sick of all of this. I live 3 miles from that site and I own farm land. I don't care to have it in my backyard. I also have drag car and really could care less to have this site where it is propossed. My family lives there and we are trying to raise a family and live a normal life like the rest. You can't just buy land and beg to put up a drag strip and hope everything turns out. The commission is on my side and I am glad that this will be all over with in a few days. Greg should have ran Scribner better, he shouldn't be starting over somewhere else and expect everyone to follow. Proud to farm and I just want to say it one more time.......NOT IN MY BACKYARD! "
Genevan wrote on July 26, 2007 1:56 pm:
" Come to Geneva with your dragstrip! We would welcome the opportunity here. "
Dittoes wrote on July 26, 2007 1:56 pm:
" Kudos and dittoes to most of the people posting here, who value the rights of landowners and the business community over the country bumpkins who are just slowing us down. Now it's time for Lincoln to really step up to the plate. Remember that nuclear waste dump that Boyd County stupidly rejected? Let's find a home for it in Lincoln! You folks who've posted here are free-market, pro-business heroes! "
Bill wrote on July 26, 2007 2:10 pm:
" For you ignorant uniformed people that seem to think all racing is NASCAR and nothing but a bunch of toothless rednecks participate you couldn't be more wrong. With the costs involved in most motor sports there is generally a very large concentration of millionaires at most racetracks. Many people involved are machanical, as in engineers and technicians. Also Eagle raceway can boast that one of their weekly competitors is none other than Dr. Ed Raines, you know the redneck in charge of bryan heart institute. By the way, if I had the land in my back yard and if I lived near a decent population concentration Sandford could most definately build his track in my back yard. Maybe the uneducated rednecks are the country cousins fighting this proposal. Bob Workman, you've gotten on the wrong side of some very wealthy and influential people. Enjoy your remaining time in office you won't be elected again. "
m wrote on July 26, 2007 2:46 pm:
" I'm still not sure why this isn't being proposed for next to the Lincoln Airport. Or even more realistically, on the landing strip! Since we don't have an Omaha-Lincoln Airport, the Lincoln airport is quite available. "
Racing along Hwy 77 wrote on July 26, 2007 3:07 pm:
" Well, Jamie, if there is racing along 77, that is ALL THE MORE reason we don't want a track out here. Just "get used to it"? I don't think so. A drag strip will only increase illegal street racing near the facility after the drag strip closes for the day. Bringing a drag strip to hwy 77 will increase illegal racing along 77, as it has done near other drag strips. "
BK wrote on July 26, 2007 3:23 pm:
" Problem solved. Build your race track. Then all the farmers in the surrounding area start and build a hog operation on land next to it. Ya want equal opportunity and money from both operations?? Ya got it. Makes ya wonder how many of these commenters are being paid while their companies think they are supposedly working? If they aren't working, boy they sure have the good life!!!! More than likely, the Lincoln citizens are paying the city and state employees to read the LJS internet news and then make their comments. There's one for Mr. Foley to check on, and I bet half the work force could be eliminated!!!!! I'll guarantee you I never had time to get on the internet at work or even my lunch hour, as I NEVER took a break time or few lunch hours and then it was grab a sandwich in 15 minutes!!!! "
Matt P. wrote on July 26, 2007 3:38 pm:
" ...."It's a scientific fact that open fields spill massive amounts of nitrogen in the air which is propelling the Greenhouse effect and global warming at an alarming rate."...don't know what to say about this one. FYI the earth's atmosphere is about 80% Nitrogen...so maybe you should check your "scientific facts" because you have them wrong. It does not contribute to global warming! The idea that these people are suppose to just "live with it" is just ridiculous. They move far from town for a reason and then all of a sudden someone wants to build a drag strip next to them. Are you telling that you wouldn't be upset about this?? I agree that they are being a little over dramatic about the situation...they make it sound as if its a nuclear power plant. Nevertheless, it would still be annoying and I don't blame them for feeling that way. "
SB's recap wrote on July 26, 2007 3:52 pm:
" A recap of the pro-racers; a great source of entertainment, it’s just corn-land, this is better than a Wal-mart (not tough to do), the kids will race unsafely on roads now endangering everyone, millions of dollars in city revenue with ONLY a 20 day race season, this could be Nebraska’s Sturgis, will create many ‘high paying’ jobs, ag-land is an infinite commodity, country dwellers should move away, motorcycles are loud, this should be a county wide public vote (despite the fact we have a county and city planning commission elected for that very reason), it’s going to be developed anyway, it’s the home-schoolers fault, dragracers are professional upstanding citizens, it’s not THAT loud, all cities grow (some choose to do it better than others), I pay my taxes, Sanford owns the land therefore should be able to do what he wants, and the best excuse ever; this will help the global warming cause (just too funny to even comment on).-and people are defending the fact that dragracer and their fans are educated, upstanding citizens? After reading these comments/excuses...I think I’m anti-dragstrip. "
Yep BK wrote on July 26, 2007 4:34 pm:
" You've got the right idea. Let the farmers build hog operations or even a cattle feed yards uphill next to the track and let all the waste run down hill. Next thing you'll hear is all these whiners that want the track saying that the farmers need to move their operations because they can't stand the stench and filth from the farmers. I keep hearing how great the Topeka track is and Lincoln could be the same. True, but the Topeka track is built in an industrial area of town and not a rural area. If you want the strip, build it in an area already zoned industrial like the area between I-80 and Cornhusker and 56th and 70th. Sanford can easily sell his land and buy some in that area. This will be a win-win all the way around. "
At what cost? wrote on July 26, 2007 4:54 pm:
" All you race track yahoos keep going on about the millions and millions of dollars that this will bring in. I don't suppose the phrase "Dirt road" caught your eye. Do you think that Sanford will want his little race track on a dirt road? No, he will want a nice paved road to it. How much will that run? And do you think Sanford would foot that bill? No, the tax payers would foot the bill. And running utilities out to it? Hmmm, I bet there would be a cost to the tax payers too. But, it would bring in millions! And millions! The millions of dollars is of course dependant on other tracks throughout the area giving up their races that bring them millions and millions of dollars. And one final question, how come no one mentions the track Sanford had? You know, the one that is out of business? Where were the millions and millions of dollars that track was making? I think the city council is deciding to keep the money in Lincoln, by not sinkining millions and millions or dollars into a money trap that will be lucky to make thousands of dollars. "
Jack wrote on July 26, 2007 4:59 pm:
" Bring the strip to Milford. It'll be better than our beautiful exit at the interstate, feed lot and the mountainous dump we have! "
Glad to have left wrote on July 26, 2007 8:27 pm:
" I'm perfectly happy to have left a city with a stagnant economy and leadership that frankly sucks. Lincoln had yet another opportunity to differentiate itself from Omaha and has yet again failed in my book. They should just move the football team to Omaha. Lincoln doesn't deserve anything worthwhile. "
Noname wrote on July 26, 2007 9:20 pm:
" How much dust does a paved track create? How much water does it take to never water a paved track? Surely the redneck homeschooled neighbors can figure out these two questions out in a couple days of class. I hope the land gets sold to the county for a dump or a huge hog operation. P.S. I'll be moving out of this county soon. "

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