THE ASK:  Ask these officials to support your track/event reopening as soon as possible under the CDC guidelines and White House plan for re-opening our nation’s economy.  

 

Why should I contact my local & state elected officials? 

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This issue begins with local officials and will move through the County and State levels in almost every case.  The Federal government (President) is setting guidelines.  The State may adopt some of these guidelines, however, they will be setting their own guidelines.  Local townships and counties will be taking the States guidelines and setting their own county requirements.  Communities/Municipalities/Towns will almost certainly be working with and taking advice from the county health departments.  

 

Who’s in charge?  And who ultimately makes this decision: the State or County?

 

This will be different across the nation.  Some States can override your local county or township officials.  But in other states, the county may override the state.  Without figuring out all the details and rules of your state and local government it is best to treat them all equally.  Your State (Governors Office & State Legislators) and your local officials (Commissioners, Township Officials, Mayors) should all be contacted.  In addition, it’s important to establish a relationship with your local county health department.  

 

With so much going on for these Elected Officials right now why would they give my track or racing events any attention? 

 

As we slowly re-open, Racing may initially not be at the top of the list.  However, we are finding the local race track or event can be a key asset to the community to learn how to best re-open events.  For example, your local community will eventually want to have parades, concerts, youth sports, and other public gatherings again.  Your track can be an excellent resource to implement and test plans for other events.  This will not likely be an idea derived from the local government.  You will need to introduce and educate them on the idea along with presenting an initial plan.

 

Do not rely on local leaders for all the answers.  They need your help with a plan! 

 

Don’t assume or leave it up to your local leaders to build a plan for the reopening of your track.  It is very important to take the initiative yourself to develop and present a plan to them.  It should be well thought out including as much detail as possible.  Racing tends to have negative perceptions such as being economically poor, and loud.  By presenting a plan and offering to be a community leader in the reopening of all public gatherings, you will alleviate this negative perception.  Already, many local officials and health departments are very thankful when they see racing as being responsible.  Offer to help them with their responsibilities during this time of challenge for all of us. 

 

Click on the Tool-kit button at the bottom of this page to find general guidelines and plans in our resources section.  

 

Prior to reaching out to the health department or local / state officials consider your current relationship.

 

Your current relationship likely falls into one of three categories.  

 

NO RELATIONSHIP: You don’t know them at all and have never met them.  In this case, see our resources on who to contact and some sample introduction letters and message points.  

 

CHALLENGED RELATIONSHIP: For some, your relationship with the local government or health department is a bit rocky.  Maybe you’ve argued over various issues in the past.  Don’t worry.  Eat a large piece of humble pie, and reach out.  You can begin by stating the fact maybe things haven’t always been the best.  Remind them, we are all in this together.  You want to work with these Public Officials, be a resource, and identify solutions.  

 

GOOD RELATIONSHIP: Pat yourself on the back for taking the time over the years to have strong local government relationships.  Now you see how those investments will pay off. 

 

REMEMBER:  All Politics are local.  You will be a great community partner and offer your location for health/public services, if appropriate for your community.  

 

Build your list.  Who should you contact?

 

Note: officials in bold should be contacted immediately.  

 

PUBLIC OFFICIALS

 

Municipal Officials (Council, Commissioners, Supervisors, and Mayor)

State Senator and State Representative

Governor’s office

State Department of Health

Local Health Department

Member of Congress

County Tourism office

County Commissioners

County Economic Development Department

Police, Fire, and EMS Departments

County Emergency Management Agency 

 

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Other Entertainment Organizations

Local Chamber of Commerce

Entertainment Organizations

Businesses near your track

Other Track Vendors

Community Service organizations supported by your track

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