STURGIS, S.D. – The Sturgis City Council met for their first meeting in February last night and on the agenda was a host services agreement for a controversial flat track race proposed for this year’s rally.
The proposed contract is between American Flat Track Events and the City of Sturgis.
Dubbed the Spirit of Sturgis TT, the race would take place downtown Sturgis on the final day of the 2024 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which is Sunday, August 11th.
Mayor Mark Carstensen describes the host agreement.
The race has drawn criticism from some who worry the city may not see a profit from the event. The cost of putting on the event for the city is estimated at nearly $654,000 per year in a five year contract. Mayor Mark Carstensen says the hope is that cost would be offset by sponsorships and the fact the Fox Television Network has reportedly picked up the race.
Sturgis Councilor Mike Bachand says the potential income for the city due to this event could be substantial.
However, some councilors had some questions and concerns about the contract. Among them, Aaron Jordan.
Jordan moved to table taking action on the contract so they could get some clarity and possibly rework it. The council agreed and it was a unanimous vote to table it.
