Red Lodge Should Rethink Motorcycle Rally Wednesday, April 16, 2008 (20:38:15) Posted by editor Margie Adams from Red Lodge says the motorcycles don't leave after the three days of the rally. The national and even international motorcycle attention that the Beartooth Rally has drawn to Red Lodge has coincided with a dramatic increase in loud motorcycle traffic through Red Lodge from May into October. Not only are residents affected, I've heard from several tourists that they will not come back, especially in summer. My impression is that most people in Red Lodge, even rally supporters, don't wish for this town to become a little Sturgis, dominated by one tourism sector driving out all others, but that is becoming a distinct possibility. Yes, there are many people in the community, including business owners, who may not be publicly vocal or aggressive in their stance but who have significant concerns about the rally and its ramifications for Red Lodge. I thank Mayor Scanlin for illuminating this fact by vetoing the council vote on the street closure. In fact, Scanlin was clear about her stance on the rally during her mayoral campaign. The mayor's veto brings attention to a decision which probably should have been delayed until the Large Events Committee comes up with recommendations reflecting the needs of residents, diverse businesses and city government. Here's hoping that the policies developed for managing large events, combined with a shored-up noise ordinance and a serious effort toward ordinance and code enforcement, will make it palatable to continue living and visiting here as a non-motorcyclist. Content received from: American Biker News, http://americanbikernews.com