RE: Public Comment, File NAE-200302257, Motorsports Holdings, Tamworth, NH

Dear Mr. Hicks,

I am a member of Club Motorsports, Inc. and live in Dunbarton, NH. I have actively followed the permitting process for Valley Motorsports Park in Tamworth, NH. I write this letter with concern regarding the Army Corps of Engineers permit for construction at VMP by Motorsports Holdings, LLC, specifically the consideration of a bond for restoration of the site in case the project fails.

It is my understanding that local opposition has requested that the ACOE require a restoration bond as part of an approval. I vehemently oppose this action. I have read that historically such bonds are handled at the local level and are not required by the ACOE and it would be unlikely for one to be required for this project by the ACOE.

The major voice of opposition to VMP is a group calling themselves Focus:Tamworth. I understand their members are key in the request of this bond. PLEASE use caution with their information and intent. To date they have spread a multitude of misinformation regarding, extensive wetlands impact, endangered species in residence, ground water contamination, habitat destruction, etc. Focus:Tamworth has even called for the repeal of recent state legislation because it “Takes away local control”, now in contradiction they ask for the federal government to add restrictions not normally placed on these approvals. Their sole and only purpose is to stop construction of this project at all cost and to use any tool available to make that happen. The request for a restoration bond is just another attempt to invoke additional costs, delays and bureaucracy into the project in an effort to prevent its construction.

The Town of Tamworth has the ability to enact zoning and other growth control ordinances that would require a restoration bond. The local people have chosen not to enact such ordinances. In fact the opposition to VMP requested a special vote on emergency zoning and it was defeated by 57% margin. The people of Tamworth do not want restricted use of their property. I ask as a citizen of a small New Hampshire town that you not place restrictions at the Federal level, which are not required by the State and have been rejected locally. I don’t want “Big Brother” involved in what should be a local decision in Tamworth, in fact, not in my town or any community.

I am fully confident that your office will fairly address all concerns in your review, but please use caution in applying outside control, especially when the option of using that same control has been soundly defeated by the citizens of Tamworth.

Thank you,

David W. Patten
199 Stark Hwy. S.