Move Atlanta Motorsports Park

Court ruling expected any day...

2011-02-02T16:35:00.003-05:00

We'll post an update as soon as we get it. Keep checking back.

Dawson News: Farmer wants to annex into city

2011-01-18T09:02:00.001-05:00

Property across from motorsports park site

Frank Reddy
frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
January 5, 2011

A property owner across from the future site of a controversial motorsports park is looking to annex his land into the city of Dawsonville.

Byron Hutson, who owns a 37-acre horse farm on Duck Thurmond Road in western Dawson County, plans to go before the city council at its Jan. 10 regular meeting.

If approved, the residential site would be rezoned “as presently,” or AP, for 12 months. At the end of that time, Hutson could then apply for a different zoning if desired, according to Mayor Joe Lane Cox.

In a recent phone conversation, Hutson said the annexation request was “something we’ve been thinking about doing.”

City Councilman James Grogan noted that Hutson’s land touches the site of Atlanta Motorsports Park, which is in Dawsonville.

Therefore, Grogan said, Hutson “has the right to come into the city.”

The motorsports park, which is under construction, is at the center of a lawsuit that claims zoning laws were violated when the city council approved the park’s rezoning.

Plaintiffs West and Helen Hamryka, who operate a horse farm near Hutson’s property, contend their business and lifestyle would sustain irreparable damage if work on the park continued.

Hutson’s business, Stillwater Farms, is listed as an official sponsor of the Atlanta Motorsports Park on the business’s Web site.

Grogan said he feels “some people in that area are seeing that [the motorsports park] is going to be a benefit to them.”

Those who are inside the city limits are eligible to use municipal infrastructure such as water and sewer.

Number of blog visits, etc. for the year

2010-12-30T14:14:00.007-05:00

We started tracking the number of visits, etc. in March and since then we've had nearly 3,401 visits, 5,654 page views and we even reached readers in Canada, the U.K. and Australia. The most number of visits the site received in one day was actually yesterday - 136.

We'll keep posting AMP-related information when we see it and thanks for visiting this blog.

Email circulating the community about last week's court hearing

2010-12-28T11:07:00.004-05:00

Read the below email we received about last week's court date. We'll post more when we have it.
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Update on 12/21 hearing

We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday.

It was a very interesting hearing. Although, the number of attendees was small, the Hamryka's appreciated the support of members of the community.

Judge John Girardeau heard oral arguments on three Motions for Summary Judgment filed by the Plaintiffs in Hamryka v. the City of Dawsonville, and one Motion for Summary Judgment filed on behalf of the City.

If granted, any one of the Plaintiffs' three Motions would establish that the rezoning of the AMP Property was done illegally by the City.

The City attorneys requested two weeks to file additional briefs to which the Plaintiffs will respond. A ruling will be issued after the supplemental briefs are submitted.

The Hamrykas were very pleased with the hearing and believe the law will prevail in their favor and the AMP debacle will be stopped.

We will send an update as soon as new information or court date is available.

Today's court hearing

2010-12-21T13:20:00.003-05:00

Once we receive an update, we will post it. Additionally, we will continue scanning the news for any applicable coverage or mentions.

Smoke Signals (Big Canoe): AMP construction given the green light. (Obstacles remain, though)

2010-12-21T13:08:00.003-05:00

Interesting points discussed from last month's court hearing.
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AMP construction given the green light

The next step in the process is the hearing on the outstanding Motions for Summary Judgment

By Lynda Zblewski
lzblewski@bigcanoenews.com

On November 30, 2010, Senior Judge John Girardeau denied a motion for Interlocutory Injunction that would have halted construction at the site of the new Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP).

Although the Court conceded the “potential” existed for the park to be a nuisance, the Plaintiffs (West and Helen Hamryka) had not shown enough of a current nuisance to merit an immediate injunction, according to the judge.

Porter “tickled” by decision

Following the November 30 hearing, Jeremy Porter, developer of AMP, was quoted in the Dawson Community News as being “tickled” at the judge’s decision (“Judge allows work to continue at park site”, by Michele Hester, posted December 8, 2010). He was further quoted as saying, “We are continuing to move forward, and I just pray the facts of this case continue to come out”.

The next step in the process is the hearing on the outstanding Motions for Summary Judgment. The attorney for the Hamryka’s, Richard Wingate, stated that the “plaintiffs are confident in the merits of their Motions and believe that the law will prevail in this case”.

The date for oral hearing of these motions was scheduled for December 21, 2010. At issue is the rezoning action by the City of Dawsonville, which ultimately permitted construction of the AMP facility. According to Wingate, “If the Court grants any of the Plaintiffs’ outstanding Motions, then the rezoning action is void and all construction activities at the AMP property must cease”.

During the November 30th proceeding, Wingate stated that the Hamryka’s had already suffered a significant loss in their property’s value. He also referred to their potential loss of business revenue in the training of hunter/jumper horses if clients moved elsewhere over concerns about their animal’s well-being.

Dr. Sue McConnell, a University of Pennsylvania professor and animal behaviorist was called to testify by Timothy Tanner, attorney for Atlanta Motorsports Park. During her testimony she stated, in her professional opinion, the noise from the operation of the AMP facility would not be detrimental to the horses and most horses would likely acclimate to the sounds over time.

During the hearing AMP developer Porter also testified. He was questioned with regard to current construction progress, the investment made to date and the future operation of the AMP facility.

As of November 30th Porter indicated that the AMP facility was 75 percent complete. The current target opening date is March of 2011. This date allows for 35 days of rain. If the rainfall is less, they anticipate opening sooner.

Porter also testified that approximately $4.8 million had been invested as of that date. This included, but was not limited to, expenses involved with tree harvesting, grading, infrastructure, concrete work for the entrance and signage. He also indicated that if work were to cease, five local companies would be adversely impacted. The five companies were not named.

When asked what type of vehicles would be using the facilities and course at Atlanta Motorsports Park, Porter testified that he anticipated about 75% of them would be standard production vehicles most likely of a sports car variety. The remaining 25% would be racing-type vehicles.

This response led to a question as to whether or not racing fuel would be stored at the facility. Porter believed that there would be some racing fuel kept on-site but was unsure as to how much. It was also unclear as to how the fuel would be contained and where on the grounds it would be stored.

A question was posed to Porter about the anticipated hours of operation of Atlanta Motorsports Park. He answered that hours of operation would be similar to that of a regular business day. According to the AMP website they indicate office hours are 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and that “course hours” would be “determined upon scheduling”.

Following that line of questioning, Porter was queried at length about the decibel level monitoring that would need to be maintained. He indicated that the decibel level they must maintain is an average of 60 Dba. According to the stipulations of the rezoning agreement, however, that average is based on “hours of operation”, which will include ‘dead’ hours when the course is not in use.

Tanner, attorney for Atlanta Motorsports Park was contacted with a request for a Smoke Signals interview of Mr. Porter. In his response Tanner declined the interview citing the ongoing litigation. He did however acknowledge our request for a statement. At press time that statement and an additional request for clarification of some of Porter’s testimony had not been received.

Ed. note: Because results of the December 21, 2010 hearing will not be available before this issue goes to press we are not able to give you the Court’s decision. Please check Smoke Signals Online – www.bigcanoenews.com --for any updates.

Court date set for tomorrow

2010-12-20T08:36:00.003-05:00

Email we received this morning from residents opposing the park's development. Thanks for the forward.
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Tuesday, December 21st, 10:00 am, the court will hear summary judgment regarding the City of Dawsonville's actions in rezoning the property for the Atlanta Motorsports Park.

This hearing is very important and we're asking those who are able, to show up at the courthouse wearing red.

We often hear defeatist talk: "You can't fight City Hall".

We simply must challenge that mindset, especially when officials abuse their authority for the benefit of a few individuals over the welfare of the larger community.

It's not representation to disregard an entire community by annexing property in the form of a slithering snake into the county to gain access to the property of an influential landowner.

There was nothing admirable about the annexation or the plans these people had.

Now, the papers and supporters of AMP are playing up the transient financial impact the construction AMP has had on tiny local businesses, some, businesses we're all too familiar with due to their previous ties to City government projects, yet the papers have not honestly or sincerely dealt with the type of noise and traffic this business will bring to our area, or the devaluation of property and enjoyment thereof.

A good suggestion for residents would be to patronize businesses and support business people that respect the people who are the backbone of a community -- the residents, and let the others fend for themselves.

Latest from Dawson Community News

2010-12-08T09:06:00.004-05:00

Judge allows work to continue at park site

December 8, 2010

Construction of a motorsports park in western Dawson County can proceed following a judge’s decision last week.

Superior Court Senior Judge John Girardeau ruled Nov. 30 that the plaintiffs in a lawsuit to halt construction of Atlanta Motorsports Park failed to demonstrate “reasonable certainty” the park would create a nuisance once it opens.

“It may turn out to be a noise nuisance. It has that potential,” said Girardeau, who added the evidence was not adequate to determine the nuisance would exist.

Developer and park president Jeremy Porter said he was “tickled” by the judge’s decision.

“We are continuing to move forward, and I just pray the facts of this case continue to come out,” Porter said.

Plaintiffs West and Helen Hamryka, who live and operate a horse training business on about 70 acres across Duck Thurmond Road from the park site, contend their business and lifestyle would sustain irreparable damage if work on the park continued.

A horse behavior expert, however, testified last week that noise from the facility “will have no effect on the behavior of the horses.”

“I cannot imagine any activity that could occur with motor vehicles that could have an impact on the behavior of the horses on the Hamryka property,” said Sue McDonnell, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

The Hamrykas filed the injunction in October, about 18 months after the city of Dawsonville approved the park’s zoning.

They have also filed suit, claiming zoning law was violated when the Dawsonville City Council approved the park’s rezoning without requiring a development of regional impact study.

Such a study is typically required for mixed-use developments.

Richard Wingate, an attorney for the Hamrykas, said his clients “are confident in the merits of their motions and believe that the law will prevail in this case.”

“If the court grants any of plaintiffs’ outstanding motions, then the rezoning action is void and all construction activities at the AMP property must cease,” Wingate said.

Porter said construction is about 75 percent complete.

“We’re looking at completing the project in March or April, depending on the weather,” he said.

Plans for the park call for about two miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles. Park features also include a members-only lounge, 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

Girardeau is expected to hear motions from both sides within the next few weeks. As of Tuesday afternoon, no date had been set.

Michele Hester
Michele@dawsonnews.com

Smoke Signals (Big Canoe): As legal gears grind forward, so will work on Atlanta Motorsports Park

2010-12-07T09:31:00.001-05:00

As legal gears grind forward, so will work on Atlanta Motorsports Park

Judge concedes AMP ‘may well be a nuisance’

(A complete review of the Atlanta Motorsports Park case will be reported in the January Smoke Signals, available December 27, 2010. )

By Lynda Zblewski

On Monday, November 30, 2010, Senior Judge John Girardeau denied a motion for Interlocutory Injunction filed by the Hamryka family (Plaintiff’s in this matter) to halt construction at the AMP site.

Although the judge recognized that the project “may well be a nuisance” there did not appear to be enough evidence of a current nuisance to necessitate an injunction at this time.

In a statement from Richard Wingate, attorney for the Hamryka family he states that “the Court did agree to set all of Plaintiffs’ outstanding Motions for Summary Judgment for oral hearing at the earliest possible date. If the Court grants any of Plaintiffs’ outstanding Motions, then the rezoning action is void and all construction activities at the AMP property must cease.”

Attorney Wingate further expressed that “Plaintiff’s are confident in the merits of their Motions and believe that the law will prevail in this case.”

There will be a complete review of the AMP case and the current status in the January Smoke Signals, which will be available December 27, 2010.

Yesterday's court hearing

2010-12-01T11:23:00.004-05:00

The court did not grant an injunction to stop construction of the park and motion of discovery of AMP's financials. However, several issues remain (according to the Hamryka's legal team) that could stop the racetrack... so the lawsuit continues.

There will be plenty of coverage about this ruling in the days ahead and we will post the stories to the blog as we find them.

Check back for the latest coverage and lawsuit updates.

Dawson Community News: Judge may halt work at car park site

2010-11-30T10:30:00.004-05:00

MOVE AMP has been traveling, so we apologize for the delayed posting of this story.

Nonetheless, see the below article in the Dawson News.

About the attorney not being available... That's interesting because he has been available for everyone else. He was recently quoted in a story a couple of weeks ago.

Considering the paper has been in the tank for Porter's racetrack since the beginning, we suspect the paper never tried (or if they did, it was at the very last second - an hour or two before their deadline - so they could use this canned line).
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Judge may halt work at car park site

Hearing set for Tuesday

November 24, 2010

Opponents will ask a Superior Court judge on Tuesday to halt construction of a motorsports park in western Dawson County.

The testimony Senior Judge John Girardeau is expected to hear likely will be limited to the motion for interlocutory injunction that West and Helen Hamryka filed in October.

The Hamrykas, who live and operate a horse training business on about 70 acres across Duck Thrumond Road from the park site, contend they are “reasonably certain to sustain irreparable damage” if construction continues.

Attempts to reach their attorney were not successful.

Plans for Atlanta Motorsports Park call for about two miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles. Park features also include a members-only lounge, 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

The Hamrykas filed suit against developer Jeremy Porter shortly after the city of Dawsonville approved zoning for the park in 2008.

The motion for injunction asks to halt construction until a judge or jury can rule in the original complaint.

Porter remains optimistic construction will be allowed to continue, but said he is “sad to see someone try to stop a project that has put five local companies back to work.”

“I’ll be very surprised if the judge grants the motion,” he said.

The city and EHK Investments were also named in the suit, which argues the defendants are responsible for the “unlawful interference” of the plaintiffs’ right to enjoy their property and “for the disruption of their business.”

In addition, the lawsuit also contends the city violated zoning law by not requiring a regional impact study, which is required of mixed use developments.

EHK, which sold the property to Porter, was released from the suit in October after Girardeau ruled that knowing the intention of the site did not establish liability.

Smoke Signals: Nov. 30 hearing to determine if injunction will halt further AMP construction

2010-11-19T08:46:00.009-05:00

Great story below. Thanks to Smoke Signals for publishing an excellent article about the lawsuit. Be there if you can, in red shirts, on Tues., Nov. 30 at 10 am at the Dawson County Courthouse to show your opposition/disgust for this future nuisance.
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Will legal action put the brakes on Dawsonville’s proposed motorsports park?

With city cutbacks, Dawsonville mayor now responsible for oversight of zoning stipulations

By Lynda Zblewski

A November 30 hearing will determine whether a judge will approve an injunction to halt further development at the controversial Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP) until all legal issues are resolved.

According to a statement issued by Richard Wingate, attorney for the Hamryka family (plaintiffs in this case), Senior Judge John Girardeau will hear the plaintiff’s motion for an interlocutory injunction against the proposed AMP at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 30, at the Dawson County Courthouse.

The purpose of the injunction is “to preserve the status quo, so that no further degradation of the environment can occur until the Court has ruled on the merits of Plaintiffs’ claims.”

Following rezoning of 152 acres in April 2009, West Hamryka, who owns a 70-acre horse farm across from the proposed motorsports park, filed suit charging the rezoning action was illegal. The suit claimed the defendants—City of Dawsonville, its mayor and council, Atlanta Motorsports Park, LLC, Jeremy Porter (Forsyth resident and AMP developer), and EHK Investments, LLC—were responsible “for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

On November 12, 2009, Judge Kathlene Gosselin issued an order completely denying all of the defendants' motions to dismiss the suit.

Resolute and determined
In a recent phone interview with Smoke Signals, West Hamryka’s resoluteness was apparent. He stated emphatically that his “resolve is unrelenting despite the active construction.” When asked if any legal change had occurred since the defendants’ motion to dismiss was denied last November, he said EHK Investments, LLC had been dropped from the suit.

The Hamrykas have also filed several motions according to Wingate “which if granted, will dispose of the lawsuit and prevent the AMP project from being completed because of the illegal rezoning action by the City of Dawsonville.”

Hamryka also stated: “We look forward to our first true day in court. We hope this project will be seen for the nuisance it is and that the court will reverse the illegal rezoning.” This proceeding will be open to the public and he encourages concerned citizens to attend.

Although Hamryka’s suit continues to move forward, work on the motorsports complex has also been allowed to proceed. According to Dawsonville City Clerk, Bonnie Warne, the appropriate land disturbance and signage permits have been applied for and issued to AMP.

The AMP website describes current construction status, along with photos of the progress. Although no building construction has begun, much grading and track work is continuing. As of this writing the AMP website reports they expect to be “operational” by the end of 2010.

Oversight of zoning stipulations
When the rezoning was approved last April, it carried 22 stipulations, a number of which were to be overseen by the Dawsonville Planning Director but, at this time, that position no longer exists. In an interview with Smoke Signals, Dawsonville Mayor Joe Lane Cox explained the oversight of these stipulations was now the responsibility of his office. Cox says he personally visits the site approximately two times a week.

In addition, portions of the construction supervision have been contracted out to Dawson County, as no personnel are employed by the City of Dawsonville to carry out these responsibilities. According to Mayor Cox this oversight is primarily in the area of environmental concerns.

When asked whether there had been any environmental issues, he related that there had been one early incident with regard to silt fencing that resulted in a fine. Since that time AMP has been in compliance. Two Dawson County employees are at the site once a week.

Mayor Cox was asked about one stipulation in particular that pertained to noise monitoring of the decibel level when the track is operational. This stipulation states there are to be a minimum of four sound meters placed around the perimeter of the property that will enable the decibel level to be monitored. The Mayor indicated that he planned to have a person assigned responsibility for monitoring the sound levels by the time the facility opened.

There was brief discussion of the AMP Web site claim that they planned to be operational by year’s end; however, Mayor Cox felt that was quite optimistic. He feels the timetable for opening is more likely next summer.

In a proactive move, a spokesperson for the Big Canoe Company, LLC confirmed that they have completed a sound study within Big Canoe to measure current sound levels. The purpose of this study is to provide a baseline for comparison if noise from AMP becomes an issue within our community.

Link to story:
http://bigcanoenews.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4366%3Anov-30-hearing-to-determine-if-injunction-will-halt-further-amp-construction-&catid=87%3Aheadline-stories&Itemid=100001

AMP lawsuit update: Court date set; plaintiffs filed several motions for summary judgment

2010-11-11T10:38:00.006-05:00

Read the below email we received last night regarding the upcoming court date on Tuesday, November 30 at 10 am.

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Email from Dawsonville MSP Opposition (thanks for sending):

Greetings neighbors and concerned members of the community!

The Hamrykas and their attorneys have been working on this case diligently since it began despite the active construction at the site... and the day in court is here!

Tuesday, November 30th, 10:00 a.m., Senior Judge John Girardeau will hear the Plaintiff's Motion for Interlocutory Injunction.

The Plaintiffs have asked the Court to halt the development of the AMP Property until all the underlying legal issues have been conclusively resolved. Plaintiffs have filed several Motions for Summary Judgment, which if granted, will dispose of the lawsuit and prevent the AMP Project from being completed because of the illegal rezoning action by the City of Dawsonville.

This Motion for Interlocutory Injunction is to preserve the status quo, so that no further degradation of the environment can occur until (in our opinion - it looks like the damage is already done and irreparable) the Court has ruled on the merits of Plaintiffs' claims.

Show up to the court in solidarity, in support of the Hamryka family, and show your desire to preserve the integrity of our community against inappropriate, invasive, high impact businesses invading our homes.

Stand for what is right alongside the Hamrykas.

Thank you and hope to see you at the courthouse Tuesday, November 30th, 10:00 a.m.!

We will send out a reminder along with any potential updates the weekend before the hearing.

Contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service about potential track runoff/pollution issues

2010-10-27T12:40:00.015-04:00

After watching this video of Porter talking about the "green" (i.e. money and screwing up the local land/environment), I had a slight observation/question. If he's all about being green, then why is he whining about spending $300,000 in stream credits and obtaining a permit to cross a stream on the property?

Further, this stream feeds into other tributaries that are home to the endangered and federally protected Etowah darter, which is found in nearby waterways. This fish will probably see its fair share of stormwater/track runoff (e.g. oil, car fluids, etc.) from his "green" race park.

Other darter species, both threatened and endangered (and federally protected by law), could experience similar negative (and possibly deadly) impacts from pollution runoff issues associated with his race track.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife (FWS) is closely following development and pollution issues relating to several darter species in northwest Georgia. Readers are strongly encouraged to contact the FWS (see below) about potential runoff/pollution issues. Request the federal agency, which you fund through your tax dollars, to review Porter's applicable environmental work. If he's so green, then surely his stream mitigation and runoff studies/plans will limit any harmful impacts to these threatened and endangered species.

Contact information for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service:

Cindy Dohner, Regional Director or Ken McDermond, Deputy Regional Director
1875 Century Boulevard
Atlanta GA, 30345
southeast@fws.gov
404-679-4000

OR

Pete Pattavina
706-613-9493 x236
pete_pattavina@fws.gov

Update?

2010-10-20T16:20:00.006-04:00

Don't have one. We're still here - scanning the news, emails, social media, etc. for updates. Stay tuned.

Hopefully Porter and AMP will give us some more fodder like the oh so brilliant Super Speeder promotion. Remember that gem... when the media skewered him for his ill-conceived PR stunt.

Maybe he can do one for the coolest spoiler?

Dawson County News: Former property owner released from lawsuit

2010-09-23T08:53:00.002-04:00

Judge: Knowing intention of site does not create liability

A judge ruled Sept. 14 that the former owner of 152 acres in western Dawson County is not a proper party for a lawsuit challenging the construction of a motorsports park on the site.

Northeastern Judicial Circuit Senior Judge John Girardeau granted a motion for summary judgement filed by EHK Investments, saying the firm’s knowledge that the property was to be used as a motorsports park does not “create liability.”

Famed NASCAR engine builder Ernie Elliott owns EHK Investments. In September 2009, he sold the property on Duck Thurmond Road, west of downtown Dawsonville, to developer Jeremy Porter, president of Atlanta Motorsports Park.

Porter’s plan calls for about two miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles. Other features include a members-only lounge, 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

Porter and the city of Dawsonville are also named in the suit, which challenges zoning regulations and argues the park will create a nuisance for the plaintiffs, West and Helen Hamryka.

Richard Wingate, an attorney for the Hamrykas, on Monday said Girardeau’s ruling “was very limited in scope and has no impact on the rest of the lawsuit.”

“We are still moving forward,” he said.

The Hamrykas own a home and horse training facility across Duck Thurmond Road from the site, where grading work has begun.

Porter said dismissing EHK from the suit will lead to a domino effect for the other defendants in the case.

Elliott could not be reached for comment.

The case was assigned to Girardeau after Superior Court Judges Bonnie Oliver and Kathlene Gosselin recused themselves.

Dawson County News: Porter promises big at chamber event

2010-09-16T09:09:00.002-04:00

Car park official speaks at event

The president of Atlanta Motorsports Park spoke at the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce luncheon last week to give members an update on the facility’s progress.

Jeremy Porter told an audience of more than 80 at the monthly gathering Sept. 9 that the new business will pump dollars into the local economy and perpetuate Dawson County’s racing culture.

Porter said small businesses will follow the park — located in the county’s west end — to Dawson County, stimulating the economy beyond its immediate impact.

“You’re going to see a lot of properties and land being taken up,” Porter said. “Businesses will move to this area, which will bring additional jobs and impact the local economy.”

Porter said that five local construction companies had already been hired to build the park, benefiting the economy.

Porter said the motor sports culture will be cultivated by the facility.

“In my opinion, this is very much a motor sports community,” he said. “The city, the county ... our hope is to continue to bring that culture into the county.”

Dawson County resident Jane Graves asked Porter about the ongoing lawsuit against the business, the city of Dawsonville and EHK Investments by West and Helen Hamryka.

“We’re still in the midst of that,” Porter said. “I’m very disappointed.”

He said construction is moving along, and that by the end of 2011, a track and garages would be complete.

The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce holds monthly luncheons, where local business and community leaders are invited to speak.

Dawson County News: Despite lawsuit, park moves ahead

2010-08-20T10:51:00.003-04:00

A new judge has been assigned to hear the case against a planned motorsports park in western Dawson County.

Superior Court Judges Bonnie Oliver and Kathlene Gosselin have both recused themselves from presiding over a lawsuit filed by West and Helen Hamryka against Atlanta Motorsports Park, the city of Dawsonville and EHK Investments.

According to Richard Wingate, the Hamryka’s attorney, Oliver vacationed several years ago in a condo owned by Bill Elliott.

Elliott is the younger brother of Ernie Elliott, who owns EHK Investments and sold to developer Jeremy Porter the land that is being graded for the motorsports park.

It could not be determined why Gosselin recused herself.

Senior Judge John Girardeau is expected Monday to hear a summary judgement motion filed by attorneys for EHK.

The attorneys contend their client was not a proper party in the lawsuit since Ernie Elliott would “have no involvement in or control over any construction or development.”

Billed as a country club for sports car enthusiasts, the Atlanta Motorsports Park plan calls for about two miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles.

Other planned features include a members-only lounge, 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

The lawsuit maintains the defendants are responsible “for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

The Hamrykas, whose property and horse training business sit directly across Duck Thurmond from the motorsports park site, contend the city of Dawsonville violated zoning procedure when approving Porter’s rezoning request in April 2009.

Last month, the Hamryka’s filed a motion for partial summary judgement on their contention that the city should have required a development of regional impact study before granting approval for a “mixed-use” development.

Porter, who called the lawsuit “abusive and frivolous,” is optimistic and continuing to move forward.

“We’re trucking along,” he said. “We’re a little bit behind schedule, but if all goes as planned, the main track, the cart track and the first phase of garages will be up Dec. 15.

“That’s the goal, and we want to make sure that we meet that date.”

Porter said to appease opponents of the project, the track has been shortened and repositioned. Additional sound barriers are also planned.

“We have definitely taken a tremendous amount of steps that are very unconventional for a motorsports park,” he said.

Good news from the recent elections

2010-08-12T08:57:00.004-04:00

It was nice to see Steve Holder finish near the bottom of the County Clerk of Courts election last month. Anyone that creates such crap stipulations for AMP (that are not and will not be enforced) should not even be elected as the "Janitor of Food Courts." Here's to you, Steve and your stipulations.

Nearby residents now facing road issues from AMP

2010-07-14T09:09:00.007-04:00

From the recent email we received:

"The County DOT lifted their requirement to have AMP rework Duck Thurmond Rd to make it safer for the added traffic. In the rezoning meetings, Mr. Porter stated that AMP would have less daily traffic than Dairy Queen (TOTAL BS, and everyone knows it), however, AMP plans on having 199 parking places, unlimited spectators, car transports and trailers, and fuel tankers to provide gas to patrons. Local citizens should consider contacting the Dawson County DOT with their concerns regarding this apparent inaccuracy. The inevitable road improvements needed to accommodate the increased traffic load projection on (Sweetwater Juno and Duck Thurmond) roads, roads which already show wear and decline (more of that "good neighbor" promise from Porter), should be the burden of the development, not the taxpayers."

With that said, forget the county DOT. Below is contact information for Ga. DOT - maybe they can help. We'd recommend loading up their voice mails, etc. and have someone at the state agency review the road situation, which is only going to decline.

Steve Gooch, GDOT state board member, congressional district 9:
P.O. Box 600
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Phone - 706-300-6568
Fax - 706-864-1036

GDOT District One (which includes Dawson County, per GDOT's website)
Todd McDuffie, District Engineer
Phone - 770-532-5526
2505 Athens Hwy SE
Gainesville, GA 30507

Update on lawsuit against AMP

2010-07-14T08:45:00.005-04:00

We received the below update last night and wanted to share it with you. Thanks to the original author for the forward. Per the update - make sure you vote against (or not for) former Dawsonville city planner Steve Holder next week in the clerk of court election!

He's the clown that came up with the "stipulations" for Jeremy Porter's racetrack - which are not being followed as Holder promised.

Move AMP
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General Lawsuit and Information Updates

The lawsuit against AMP, the City of Dawsonville, and EHK (Elliott) Investments has been assigned to its third judge. The first judge, Hon. Kathlene Gosselin was reassigned, the second judge, Hon. Bonnie Oliver has removed herself. Currently, Northeastern Circuit Senior Judge John Girardeau will be hearing the case.

The Hamryka's attorneys, Hallmann and Wingate, have filed two motions for partial summary judgment with more to follow. They also requested the judge to compel AMP founder, Jeremy Porter, to disclose information that was not released during discovery.

The County DOT lifted their requirement to have AMP rework Duck Thurmond Rd to make it safer for the added traffic. In the rezoning meetings, Mr. Porter stated that AMP would have less daily traffic than Dairy Queen, however, AMP plans on having 199 parking places, unlimited spectators, car transports and trailers, and fuel tankers to provide gas to patrons. Local citizens should consider contacting the Dawson County DOT with their concerns regarding this apparent inaccuracy. The inevitable road improvements needed to accommodate the increased traffic load projection on (Sweetwater Juno and Duck Thurmond) roads, roads which already show wear and decline, should be the burden of the development, not the taxpayers.

Observations from the construction site

Mr. Porter has been inviting investors to preview the course site, promoting the course pictures: http://nascar.speedtv.com/article/cars-atlanta-motorsports-park-no-bailout-needed/

Driving by the reality tells a different story. It is hard to imagine the site, stripped of mature trees, resembling the "green" plans, even in decades to come.

Editor's comments on the upcoming elections

Elections are upon us with plenty of candidates vying to fill the position of clerk of court. For many of us on this mailing list, one name stands out: former city planner, Steve Holder.

When interviewed, Mr. Holder shared: "Integrity starts at the top and works its way down.”

While we always hope our representatives who make impactful decisions exhibit an unwavering level of integrity and set a standard, personal integrity stands alone and is a value within each individual; renewed and called upon daily.

Personal integrity is the barometer in the choices we make that tells us as individuals what we are doing is right, whether we are at the top or the bottom of the chain of command.

The notion of trickle down integrity shouldn't be overly impressive for obvious reasons.

For those who are unfamiliar with Mr. Holder, he was the City Planning director in charge of creating and compiling stipulations for Atlanta Motorsports Park, stipulations which will dictate what kind of impact this facility has on the property value and enjoyment for homeowners up to several miles away from the track.

The willful lack of fair consideration for residents has left those in the adjacent community facing not only property devaluation, but an even more significant devaluation: the diminishment of quality of life.

At one public hearing where the developer advised supporters to wear blue, Mr. Holder wore a blue shirt, warmly greeting a crowd of mainly out of town supporters of the track, while worried residents sat feeling they had no one in their corner to grant them equitable considerations.

Now, Mr. Holder asks for your vote for a coveted county position.

Many residents feel we will pay prolonged and dearly for his decision not to provide fair and decent protective stipulations to the resident taxpayers who will live with the increased traffic, dangers and noise Atlanta Motorsports Park will bring.

Keep those thoughts in mind when you cast your vote.

An end note on voting in general:

If a candidate is running unopposed and you do not feel this candidate has represented you, or if you feel none of the candidates are good representatives you are comfortable voting for, you may either leave the ballot blank, write someone in, or cast a protest vote by writing in fictional or iconic characters, thereby registering your discontent.

Regardless for whom or how you cast your vote, exercise your right to vote, and in doing so, be heard.

Summer doldrums - and Corvette Guy

2010-06-09T13:52:00.007-04:00

Not a lot to report right now. Stay tuned, as we're monitoring the news for applicable coverage about AMP and its court battle. We'll post items as applicable. In the meantime, a bit by Jim Rome about "Corvette Guy" - which is the kind of guy (or guys) you can expect to visit the AMP track if/when ever built.

Legal case study about noise and motorsports parks

2010-05-05T08:51:00.010-04:00

While this isn't the U.K., there are some interesting points (in the below link to a legal case study/update) that might be applicable now and when this racetrack opens. My favorite line that residents within a few miles of the track can expect... "sensible personal discomfort." Otherwise known as a noise nuisance. I'm sure the constant noise will do wonder for property values.

http://www.clydeco.com/attachments/published/3664/Noise%20and%20Motorsport%20v2_Layout%201.pdf 20v2_Layout%201.pdf

Sign-up parts of Dawson County... Try Duck Thurmond Rd. for starters.

Dawson Community News: Judge hears motion in motorsports suit

2010-04-21T10:03:00.004-04:00

Judge hears motion in motorsports suit
by Michelle Hester

Attorneys for the couple trying to stop construction of a motorsports park in western Dawson County say a security deed signed by EHK Investments confirms the group is a proper party in the lawsuit.

West and Helen Hamryka, whose property sits across from the park site, filed suit last year against EHK, the city of Dawsonville and Atlanta Motorsports Park.

The Hamrykas contend the development would cause a nuisance to their lives and their horse-training business.

Tom Calkins, who represents EHK, appeared in court Friday afternoon to argue that his clients “are strangers to this property at this time.”

EHK, which includes renowned NASCAR engine builder Ernie Elliott, filed a motion for summary judgement, asking to be dismissed from the case on grounds it was an improper party in the suit.
“From our standpoint, EHK no longer owns or controls the AMP property,” Calkins said.

But a court brief filed by attorney Richard Wingate, who represents the Hamrykas, claims EHK’s owner financed the property to Jeremy Porter, founder of Atlanta Motorsports Park, at $1.4 million last September.

“The defendant has repeatedly stated in his brief and elsewhere that he no longer holds ownership interest or control over the AMP property,” Wingate said. “The security deed ... is to secure the purchase price of the property and any future obligations.

“This security deed gives EHK undeniably legal ownership interest in the property and it confirms that EHK is a proper party for this lawsuit.”

Porter’s plan calls for nearly three miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles, a members-only lounge, 10,000 square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

Northeastern Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Bonnie Oliver did not make a ruling in the case. No subsequent hearing date has been set.

In November, a judge denied the defendants’ motion to dismiss the case, allowing the plaintiffs to move forward.

Porter received a land disturbance permit from the city in mid-March and has begun clearing trees on the site.

Dawson News & Advertiser: EHK requests summary judgment in AMP case

2010-04-21T09:59:00.002-04:00

EHK requests summary judgment in AMP case

by A.J. Puckett

EHK (Ernie Elliott) Investments was in court Friday afternoon for a hearing with Superior Court Judge Bonnie Oliver. EHK, which was named as a defendant in the case surrounding Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP), filed a motion for summary judgment in February on the grounds that there is “no genuine issue to be tried.”

Oliver did not make a decision during the hearing Friday, according to Thomas Calkins, who represents EHK.

(Rest of story can be found in this week's print edition of the Dawson News & Advertiser. It is subscription only.)

Court hearing tomorrow

2010-04-15T15:02:00.002-04:00

Email making the rounds - see below.

Tomororow Judge Bonnie Oliver will hear EHK Investments, LLC's motion for summary judgement. This is an attempt to gain release from the ongoing lawsuit on the part of EHK Investments, LLC. (Elliott corp). A brief hearing is anticipated at 1:30 at the Dawsonville Courthouse.

This is the first hearing with the new judge. A showing of concerned residents may emphasize the importance this case has to the surrounding community who will be negatively impacted by the motorsports park noise and traffic. We understand this is late notice; however, we ourselves were just informed of this latest development.

AMP has continued stripping the land, ignoring the "undisturbed buffer" required by the rezoning.

"Water conservation shifts into overdrive," but noise abatement plan is in reverse

2010-04-12T12:42:00.005-04:00

Hopefully, Porter's dedication to finding the best, enviro-minded urinals around will be duplicated when it comes to building sound buffers for "his neighbors." I know top of the line hay bales are so chic and effective, but I'm sure other meaningful measures exist so he can be a "good neighbor" - which he proclaimed to all in attendance at the rezoning vote last year.

Kudos on the environmental angle, though.

Water Conservation Shifts into Overdrive at Atlanta Motorsports Park with Falcon

Source: Falcon Waterfree Technologies

Apr. 7, 2010

When guests at Atlanta Motorsports Park make a men's room 'pit stop,' they'll have a high-tech, high-performance experience with Falcon Waterfree urinals. The touch-free, waterfree urinals are one of several environmental features at the only green sustainable motorsports park in the world and are estimated to save more than 1 million gallons of water per year, enough to fill 200 tank trucks.

'We've considered the environmental footprint of every aspect of building our motorsports park, and the Falcon Waterfree urinals meet or beat every requirement for high performance and sustainability,' explains Jeremy Porter, CEO of Atlanta Motorsports Park. 'Besides enlisting the top designers for our track and buildings, we're using the best equipment and fixtures such as Falcon Waterfree urinals throughout in order to provide a remarkable and exclusive experience for our club members.'

Rest of release - http://www.environmental-expert.com/resultEachPressRelease.aspx?cid=10534&codi=161483&lr=1

Least he opted for the novelty wallpaper.

Lawsuit email that's making the rounds

2010-03-24T09:13:00.003-04:00

So much for that "buffer" that Jeremy Porter was gonna leave for his neighbors. It's okay, we can count on the county to enforce those stipulations. (Yeah, right.) The pictures are listed on the site referenced below. I like the one at the bottom, though.... Because you can really see the buffer.

Bottom line, the undisturbed 40 ft buffer and other limitations in the zoning are great unless Porter chooses to ignore any or all of them.

AMP Lawsuit Update

Spring is here and residents located in the Duck Thurmond, Sweetwater Juno and Hwy 183 vicinity may have recently noticed the logging trucks roaring down the residential rural roads at accelerated speeds.

Bulldozers have begun plowing through the proposed race track site and very little buffer scrub, which was deemed a natural noise barrier to be left intact, has been left.

Several weeks ago, nearby residents noticed ground disturbance activity with heavy machinery prior to the issuance of the current permit which has allowed Jeremy Porter to begin stripping the land in preparation for construction...despite the lawsuit.

Even with the uncertainty surrounding this venture, big money is being spent, permits have been issued, and the land is being scraped all before the judge hears the case and issues a decision on the matter.

To view the pictures of the area being cleared, please visit http://amplawsuitupdates.blogspot.com/ and scroll to the photos. The pictures are enlargeable so you may examine them in detail. This site is not an interactive site but will supplement the e-letter updates.

Points we'd like to share with the community:
• The Hamryka's case against the plaintiffs - AMP, the City of Dawsonville, and the Elliott's, was deemed legally sound by Judge Gosselin when she denied the motion to dismiss.
• The lawsuit is progressing in the "discovery" phase and currently depositions are being taken on both sides.
• Though no court date has been set at the time of this email, the lawsuit is expected to be heard in court this summer.
• Judge Bonnie Oliver from Gainesville will assume the case. Judge Gosselin's cases were reassigned due to a change in her present duties.

Court case proceeding...

2010-03-17T12:05:00.006-04:00

The landowner's lawsuit against the track is continuing and from all accounts, things continue to sound promising. We do not have any concrete updates or timeline to provide at this point, but this site will keep all informed when something breaks. Sounds like the AMP-ers are getting antsy based on some Facebook posts. Feel free to go on there and make your opinion's known about this ill-advised race track.

http://www.facebook.com/atlantamotorsportspark

http://www.facebook.com/atlantamotorsportspark#!/group.php?v=wall&ref=ts&gid=59029869928

UPDATE - Per the above pages newest posts... Oh, it's zoned, permitted and some construction has started, but that doesn't mean that a judge can't stop this thing dead in its tracks. The possibility is very real, ongoing and is costly to him and insiders - win, lose or draw. Don't pop the bubbly just yet.

The Times of Trenton (NJ) - on NJ.com: Communities everywhere have a right to protection

2010-02-03T09:29:00.004-05:00

Letter to the editor:

Communities everywhere have a right to protection

I live in a beautiful, peaceful area of picturesque agricultural land and rural homesites with pristine waterways, which are habitats for endangered species unique to the region, and more than 25,000 acres of protected wildlife management area.

Our city discarded the Land Use Plan and annexed and recently rezoned rural agricultural/residential land to accommodate Atlanta Motorsports Park.

Residents set about to ensure their rights were protected against the noise.

Looking for information, we took our battle to the internet and found Trackracket.org, from which we followed the issues of the New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, for information useful to proactively protect our community.

Residential property owners have rights, too. It's unfair for businesses to reap profit while residential property values and quality of life plummet.

When businesses are allowed into existing communities, bringing with them increased traffic and exposure to constantly heightened noise levels, those businesses should be required to responsibly protect the interests of the residents they encroached upon by abiding by reasonably set decibel levels and providing proper, efficient, technologically proven noise barriers.

The community must stand for fair rights to protect residential investments, and, in doing so, raise the bar on planning commissions and elected officials who approve such developments adjacent to residential areas -- that's reasonable, ethical, accountable, successful growth where no one is victimized. Businesses can profit and residents can enjoy their property investments.

In solidarity, I joined Trackracket, because I believe residential property holders, the backbone of a community, deserve fair treatment.

If you don't stand for your rights, you lose them while others profit at your expense. We're watching in Dawsonville, wishing success to the community near the New Jersey Motorsports Park.

Allison Schmitt,
Dawsonville, Ga.

WXIA-TV (NBC Atlanta) - Motorsports Park CEO offers freebies to superspeeder violators

2010-01-27T20:01:00.007-05:00

Listed below are links to tonight's story. Kudos to Doug Richards and NBC.

Online story - http://http//www.11alive.com/includes/tools/print.aspx?storyid=140187

News clip (which is too funny) - http://www.11alive.com/video/default.aspx?aid=115667&storyid=140187#/Dude%2C+What%3F/Motorsports+Park+CEO+Offers+Freebies+to+Superspeeders/49906865001/50255187001/63752846001

Reader comments from the online story at WXIA's Web site...

"On a different note, if I own a practice/shooting range, can I advertise free range time for people convicted of public discharge of a gun?"

"Maybe Mr. Porter will give these ya-hoos a cell phone so they can be texting while racing around his course."

"There goes the neighborhood. I know people who moved out there to get away from the very thing that will now be in their back yard. Did not enough locals ban together to stop this, or do I smell the taint of political corruption in the mix? I say, follow the money."

"...Fear not,...I'M gonna apply for a pouring licence across the street."

Dawson Communty News: Speeding promotion angers foe of park

2010-01-27T10:07:00.006-05:00

Good story below. Some of these quotes are priceless. Love the mulligan approach - now that's great PR counsel.

“We’re just trying to promote a good place for people to drive fast and safe,” he said. ... We’re not going to allow them to get on our track and drive 150 mph into a wall, obviously.”

He should be more worried about one of his customers being injured (or worse) by a known, convicted wreckless motorist. Here's hoping your teenager isn't out there when these clowns are burning up the track in their free t-shirt.

Speeding promotion angers foe of park

Developer says no harm in offer

The wording of a press release from the developer of a controversial motorsports park has at least one Dawson County resident up in arms.

“Giving them a free half-day of driving ... I think that’s irresponsible,” said Sam Horner, who opposes the proposed Atlanta Motorsports Park.

But developer Jeremy Porter said the recent promotional business literature is harmless.
According to a press release, the park offers a discount and free T-shirt if patrons bring their “super speeder ticket to the park.”

The so-called “super speeder” law went into effect Jan. 1 for Georgia drivers who are convicted of traveling 75 mph on any two-lane road or at least 85 mph on any road.

According to the release, the promotional T-shirt includes the words: “I’ve learned my lesson!” on the front, and “AMP is the only safe and fun way to fill the need for speed” on the back.

The park has not been built yet, and it’s at the center of a lawsuit.

That hasn’t calmed Horner.

“[Porter’s] backing people that are driving and showing bad behavior,” he said. “If he were to offer to put these people through driver’s education after receiving their speeding tickets, that would be different. That might make sense.”

Porter defended the press release.

“We’re just trying to promote a good place for people to drive fast and safe,” he said. “ ... We’re not going to allow them to get on our track and drive 150 mph into a wall, obviously.”

Dawson County Sheriff’s Lt. Tony Wooten said the “super speeder” law, which carries an extra $200 fine, is in place because “the greater speed you’re going, the greater chance you have of being killed in an accident or killing someone.”

“It’s an effort to hopefully control that and cut down on the number of deaths we have every year on Georgia roads,” Wooten said.

At the time of publication, the park’s press release did not appear to be on the
company’s Web site.

Porter, however, provided a recent copy of the document to the Dawson Community News, which he said was different from a previous version posted on the site Jan. 16.

He said a miscommunication with the company that handles AMP public relations led to an early, unapproved draft of the press release getting out.

The most recent, approved draft contained some changes. Porter said the old version “sounded like you’re supposed to go out there and speed.”

“We made the changes and sent it back to them,” he said. “They mistakenly posted the old one.”

West and Helen Hamryka, who own a home and horse farm across from the 152-acre car park site in northwestern Dawson, filed a lawsuit against Porter in May 2009 “for the unlawful interference of the [Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

A motion to dismiss the lawsuit was denied in November, when a judge ruled the plaintiffs could move forward.

Despite litigation, the developer closed on the property in September, with plans for nearly three miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles, a members-only lounge, 10,000 square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

Gainesville Times - ‘Super Speeder’ promotion draws fire

2010-01-27T09:20:00.006-05:00

Story listed below MoveAMP's comments.

Call it what you want. It's still a shameless promotion that's trying to capitalize off of wreckless - um, criminal - behavior.

Teen driving programs and law enforcement training - and super speeders

I can see it now... Parents from all over the area are going to feel comfortable sending their kids to this track knowing that convicted super speeders/wreckless motorists will be there to set a fine example. The t-shirts will add a nice touch for the youngsters to see.

Just maybe, the cops-in-training can chase down the super speeders for practice - all while dodging innocent drivers - namely your teens. That'd be pretty interesting to watch.

“What we’re trying to do is get these speeders off the public roadways where they could endanger and hurt others,” he said."

To the fine quote above... And yeah, instead we are going to bring them to our track where they could potentially endanger and hurt paying customers. That sounds logical and like a legal disaster waiting to happen. I would think that you want the safest people around your customers - not wreckless clients. Sounds like a developer/owner that really cares about his clients' safety.

Again, I'm going back to my analogy. Let's say that I open a gun shop and shooting range. Let me find the most wreckeless firearm operators in the state to use my range and facilities.. And risk one of my customer's getting accidently shot.

I could go on for days regarding the screwed up logic here. Am sure there is more to come. Feel free to add your two cents.

‘Super Speeder’ promotion draws fire

Opponents of motorsports park criticize pitch

The CEO of a planned motorsports park in Dawsonville says a promotion offering free half days at the track for people who bring in a “Super Speeder” ticket is not encouraging folks to speed.

Meanwhile, opponents of the Atlanta Motorsports Park, planned for a tract of land off Duck Thurmond Road, say the recently announced Super Speeder promotion is evidence the track’s developers don’t have the community’s best interests at heart.

Earlier this month, the park issued a news release over the Internet offering a T-shirt and a free half day at the track to anyone who brings a Super Speeder ticket to the park.

The park is being promoted as a place where people can bring high-performance cars for runs along a road course. The private facility is designed for participants, not spectators.

“With the new law in effect, AMP looks forward to a likely increase in customers,” the news release stated. The document further stated that the half day and T-shirt were “a nice perk for getting caught by the police for doing what comes naturally.”

Starting this month, Georgia drivers caught going 85 mph on a four-lane road or 75 mph on a two-lane road will be assessed $200 above the normal speeding fines. Fees collected by the new law will help fund Georgia’s trauma-care hospital centers.

Sam Horner, a vocal opponent of the track who lives across the road from the planned site, said the promotion is insensitive and irresponsible.

“To me it just says they’ll try to make money at any cost,” Horner said. “It’s one thing to promote your track, but to offer a reward for criminal behavior, I don’t think that’s right.”

Jeremy Porter, CEO of Atlanta Motorsports Park, said the original news release posted on the Internet was replaced because the authors of the document “made it sound like we encouraged people to speed.”

“By no means would I ever promote people to speed and to get a ticket,” Porter said. “What we’re basically saying is, don’t drive fast, and if you do, we can provide a place to drive fast safely without endangering others.”

Those who present the ticket would get a T-shirt reading “I learned my lesson — AMP is the only place to drive fast and safe,” Porter said.

“What we’re trying to do is get these speeders off the public roadways where they could endanger and hurt others,” he said.

Porter noted that folks ticketed as Super Speeders are looking at paying upward of $500 in fines. A half day at his track would cost less than $200, he said.

“Why would you do something where you would have to pay $400 to $600 when you could come here for the whole day for that?” he said.

Porter said the facility will donate track time for teen driver programs and law enforcement training.

Despite an ongoing lawsuit filed by track opponents challenging the rezoning of the site, Porter anticipates breaking ground for the facility soon. He hopes to have the track portion of the park built by the third quarter of this year.

Porter estimated the facility could have a “ripple effect” of $30 million to $60 million each year on the local economy.

Porter said the park already has sold more than $1 million worth of memberships and drawn interest from several sponsors.

You stay classy, Porter (see latest AMP achievement)

2010-01-19T09:31:00.009-05:00

See below release that Mr. "Good Community Neighbor - as he's stated" (Porter) distributed far and wide.

For starters, I guess that exclusive, racetrack country club sales pitch is false - now that anyone and their brother (who breaks the law, of course) can use the track. And just what Dawsonville needs, convicted wreckless motorists barrelling down county roads - potentially causing accidents or worse.

Maybe they wouldn't mind if a Dawson County resident could open a porn shop in his community (in Forsyth County) and invite convicted sex offenders in for a free movie? Or maybe someone could open a gun shop and invite felons convicted of aggravated assault to pick out a pistol/ammo of their choice.

Furthermore, at a time when Georgia is trying to save our loved ones on state highways, this appears to be nothing more than a cheap PR stunt.

So, we ask Porter - given his "devote faith" - what would Jesus do? He would reward and condone criminally negligent behavior.... NOT!

Staying classy, as usual...
http://www.moviesoundclips.net/movies1/anchorman/classy.wav

PRESS RELEASE FROM AMP

"Super Speeder" Law Increases Atlanta Motorsports Park Success

Super Speeder law in GA thought to increase patronage at AMP

Let's face it: there is nothing more exhilarating than hearing the roar of an engine, being pushed deep into a bucket seat as you take a turn, and "seeing" a blur as you speed down the open road.

Unfortunately, driving your car fast is illegal-especially with the new "Super Speeder" law that went into effect on Jan. 1, 2010. This law adds an additional $200 fine on drivers exceeding 85 mph on any road and 75 mph on any two lane road. Though the government's intentions for this law are to reduce the amount of people speeding on Georgia highways in order to lessen the large amount of medical emergencies and to keep traffic flows steady, there may be an unintentional effect from this law. Drivers have a need for speed, and Atlanta Motorsports Park has the perfect outlet for them.

Jeremy W. Porter, CEO, considers AMP as a place that allows speeders to safely and legally do what they want to do-DRIVE FAST! With speeding tickets increasing in price, drivers are going to look for other venues to push their vehicles to the limit. AMP offers a high-scale environment for unleashing the raw potential of sports cars without any of the pricey legal ramifications of doing so on state roads. With the new law in effect, AMP looks forward to a likely increase in customers.

In fact, AMP has decided that if you bring your super speeder ticket to the park, along with your sports car, then you can get a half day and a t-shirt! Now that's a nice perk for getting caught by the police for doing what comes naturally, huh?

Letter to Mayor Joe Lane Cox

2010-01-07T10:03:00.004-05:00

Recently obtained is a copy of a letter (below) that was sent to Mayor Cox and to other city and county officials regarding Jeremy Porter's latest attempt to flaunt the law.... Just another shining example of that good Christian/good neighbor crap that Porter tried to sell at the city council meetings.

Mayor Cox:

Atlanta Motorsports Park and Mr. Jeremy Porter have been for quite some time altering the 154 acres on Duck Thurmond Rd. with heavy equipment. Not seeing a displayed permit, I called the City of Dawsonville on or about 12/22/09 and was informed that AMP had not even applied for a Land Disturbance Permit! I was further told when AMP got their permit it would be posted at the entrance to the property; and yet no displayed permit as of December 28, 2009 @ 7:00 AM.

Everyone should abide by the law! Is Mr. Porter above the law? Is he getting special consideration from the city? Is the City looking the other way? Is there not an on going law suit concerning AMP? Since Sweetwater Creek looked unusually muddy after the rains during the week of Dec. 14th thru 18th and again on Dec. 25th, one might wonder if silt fences are in place. The EPD would certainly require their instillation near Sweetwater Creek in this case. These are just a few questions that concern me as a citizen of Dawson County.

The law is the law and everyone should have to abide by it; no matter whom they are or who they know!

Even though Dawson County doesn’t want to be involved; I say they should at least protect and monitor the county portion of Sweetwater Creek concerning the up stream land disturbance. I would be hopeful that Dawson County wouldn’t have allowed Land Disturbance without a Permit if a similar situation arose in the county.

I hope that my expectations of the City of Dawsonville and Dawson County are not too great.

Thank you for consideration in this matter.

Email circulating the community about AMP

2010-01-07T10:01:00.001-05:00

The email that's making the rounds...

Updates on the Motorsports Park legal battle

The Hamryka's lawsuit is now in the discovery phase. Attorneys for Porter, the Elliotts and the City of Dawsonvile must now prepare their cases.

While no land disturbance permit has been issued (according to a city representative), grading has begun in what appears to be a footprint of the actual track.

Google Alerts show quite a bit of recent activity promoting AMP, all fail to mention the legal battle. If you have not already, it may be to your interest to sign up for the Google Alert 'Atlanta Motorsports Park' to keep up-to-date on the info Mr. Porter is putting out while he seeks investors. To sign up for Google Alerts, go to: http://www.google.com/alerts

News from Millville New Jersey and Trackracket

We recently received the following information from Michelle Post, founder of the nonprofit org. Trackracket, dedicated to protecting the rights of residents around the NJMSP track. Michelle informs us Trackracket has filed suit.

Read Trackracket's suit, note the empty promises of jobs and rejuvenation to the area used to sell the project. Sound familiar? (you must download the pdf file to read the legal papers)
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/pdf_255cfc46-f42f-11de-8daf-001cc4c03286.html

Write up in the Atlantic City paper: 'TrackRacket sues Motorsports Park, Millville'
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/press/cumberland/article_309f7a02-f42f-11de-a1a4-001cc4c03286.html or access the article via: http://tinyurl.com/ydrn334

If you'll remember, NJ residents were also assured by City authorities and the developer the noise would not be disruptive to the community, however, visiting Trackracket's website, listening to the audio and viewing the decibel meter shows a different story!
Just listen to what 65-75 decibels sounds like 2.5 miles from the track.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcAeK0yz_Fk&feature=player_embedded

Trackracket's main website: http://trackracket.org/ various videos and sound recordings are available.

Feel free to share these irritating noise links the next time someone tells you "oh, it won't be so bad". It's one thing to enjoy a day of racing when you feel like it, it's entirely another to be trapped on your own land and unable to escape that type of noise.

This park belongs in a vastly different setting where there would be much less noise and environmental impact.

Kudos to Trackracket and their community for taking a united stand!

We will keep you updated on AMP, the lawsuit and any significant news relating to Trackracket's suit.

Smoke Signals (Big Canoe): AMP opponents win first round in legal battle

2009-11-23T16:09:00.002-05:00

Judge denies motion to dismiss, allows AMP lawsuit to proceed

Hidden Still Farms is adjacent to the proposed Atlanta Motorsports Park.

By Barbara Schneider
bschneider@bigcanoenews.com

A judge’s motion provided the first significant victory for opponents to construction of Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP) in a rural portion of western Dawson County.

Richard Wingate is the attorney for West Hamryka, the homeowner whose property Hidden Still Farms is adjacent to the proposed Atlanta Motorsports Park. On behalf of the Hamrykas, Wingate filed a lawsuit against the City of Dawsonville, its mayor and council, Atlanta Motorsports Park, LLC, Jeremy Porter (Forsyth resident and AMP developer), and EHK Investments, LLC.[Ernie Elliot]. The suit claims the defendants are responsible “for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

On Nov. 12, Judge Kathlene Gosselin issued an order completely denying all of the defendants' motions to dismiss (full text of the statement below).

Community protested

Earlier this year hundreds of residents throughout Dawson County, including many from Big Canoe, attended months of City of Dawsonville meetings to voice their opposition to the city’s approval of AMP.

On April 13, the Dawsonville City Council unanimously approved rezoning 152 acres along Duck Thurmond Road for the proposed Atlanta Motorsports Park on April 13. The vote reclassified a portion of 1,500 acres currently owned by the Elliot family along Duck Thurmond Road near Hwy 53 from residential 1 to CIR (restricted industrial district). (For the complete story see: “Dawsonville okays AMP rezoning,” Smoke Signals Online archives or Smoke Signals, May.)

Meeting with the media after the vote, West Hamryka, who owns a 70-acre horse farm directly across Duck Thurmond Road from the proposed motorsports park, vowed to continue the fight. “We are prepared to take this to the next legal step.”

The City, he said, basically threw out the land use plan approved last year. He vowed to sue the City of Dawsonville for improper spot zoning and said he was willing to continue the fight in the courts.

The Hamrykas are seeking an injunction to prevent construction of the motorsports park, as well as at least $3 million in damages, plus legal fees. Per the ruling, the case now enters the discovery phase for the next several months.

Attorney Wingate’s statement:

“The citizens of Dawson County were granted a major victory in their endeavor to prevent the Atlanta Motorsports Park from destroying the peace and tranquility of this rural community. Judge Kathlene Gosselin issued an Order on November 12 completely denying all of the Defendants' Motions to Dismiss. The Defendants include the City of Dawsonville, its Mayor and Council, Atlanta Motorsports Park, LLC, Jeremy Porter, and EHK Investments, LLC.

The Defendants had each filed Motions to dismiss the lawsuit filed by Dr. and Mrs. Hamryka, the adjacent landowners, and owners of Hidden Still Farms, Inc, a world class horse boarding and training operation.

In the Order, the Court held that the Plaintiffs' complaint was properly filed and served and that the Plaintiffs had properly stated a claim for injunctive relief from the nuisance that would be caused by the AMP development, if it is constructed. Defendants had previously characterized Plaintiffs' lawsuit as "frivolous." The November 12 Order clearly demonstrates that Plaintiffs' lawsuit has merit.”

Access North Ga.: Judge rules against defendants in motorsports park suit

2009-11-20T10:30:00.002-05:00

More coverage about ruling against Porter and crew.

http://www.accessnorthga.com/detail.php?n=224853

Dawson County News: Judge allows motorsports lawsuit to move forward

2009-11-18T15:26:00.002-05:00

See court ruling below this post.

Judge allows motorsports lawsuit to move forward

Motion to dismiss denied

Plaintiffs in a law suit filed to halt the construction of a motorsports park across from their property in western Dawson County scored a win earlier this week when the judge ruled they could move forward with the suit.

"The citizens of Dawson County were granted a major victory in their endeavor to prevent the Atlanta Motorsports Park from destroying the peace and tranquility of this rural community," Richard Wingate, attorney for West and Helen Hamryka, said in a statement released Tuesday.

The Hamrykas, who own a home and horse farm across from the 152-acre car park site, filed suit against developer Jeremy Porter, Atlanta Motorsports Park, the city of Dawsonville, Dawsonville City Council, and EHK (Ernie Elliott) Investments in May.

Billed as a country club for sports car enthusiasts, the Atlanta Motorsports Park plan calls for nearly three miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles, a members-only lounge, 10,000 square foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

The suit claims the defendants are responsible “for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

The Hamrykas contend the city violated zoning procedure when approving Porter’s rezoning request in April.

They are seeking an injunction to prevent construction of the motorsports park, as well as at least $3 million in damages, plus legal fees.

The city of Dawsonville, EHK (Ernie Elliott) Investments and Jeremy Porter, founder of Atlanta Motorsports Park, each filed motions to dismiss the civil suit.

Attorneys for Porter say the plaintiff’s failure to serve "the defendants with any complaint during the 30-day limitation period for appeals on zoning decisions” should dismiss the counts.
The motions to dismiss also address the Hamrykas’ nuisance complaint, which Porter said would not be determined for months, if ever.

Attorneys for Elliott, who sold the property to Porter, said their client was not a proper party in the lawsuit since he would "have no involvement in or control over any construction or development."

The defendants motions were denied.

Superior Court Judge Kathlene Gosselin ruled the plaintiffs' complaint followed all proper filing procedures.

The order, Wingate said, "clearly demonstrates that (the) plaintiffs' lawsuit has merit."

Porter said he is not discouraged.

"We believe the lawsuit is still frivolous and abusive. We may not have won on the procedures, which is what this was about, but we still feel confident and still feel we'll have victory," he said.
Wendy Butler, Porter's attorney, said the joint-defense counsels are working together to strategize the next step.

Wingate said his clients were pleased with the ruling. He anticipates taking the case to trial next year.

Court Ruling Against AMP

2009-11-18T14:40:00.006-05:00

Below is a link to the recent ruling against AMP. The discovery phase should be interesting. We'll continue to monitor this situation and provide colorful commentary and updates, as applicable.

Select "Regular Download" once you land on the sendspace Web site. On the next page, look for the Download Link (with read arrow next to it)... That's the file. No registration required.

http://www.sendspace.com/file/yxtyk1

Ruling in favor of Hamryka's - lawsuit may proceed

2009-11-18T09:37:00.002-05:00

Statement issued by Hamryka's attorney...

"The citizens of Dawson County were granted a major victory in their endeavor to prevent the Atlanta Motorsports Park from destroying the peace and tranquility of this rural community. Judge Kathlene Gosselin issued an Order on November 12 completely denying all of the Defendants' Motions to Dismiss. The Defendants include the City of Dawsonville, its Mayor and Council, Atlanta Motorsports Park, LLC, Jeremy Porter, and EHK Investments, LLC. The Defendants had each filed Motions to dismiss the lawsuit filed by Dr. and Mrs. Hamryka, the adjacent landowners, and owners of Hidden Still Farms, Inc, a world class horse boarding and training operation. In the Order, the Court held that the Plaintiffs' complaint was properly filed and served and that the Plaintiffs had properly stated a claim for injunctive relief from the nuisance that would be caused by the AMP development, if it is constructed. Defendants had previously characterized Plaintiffs' lawsuit as "frivolous." The November 12th Order clearly demonstrates that Plaintiffs' lawsuit has merit. "

Green and the racetrack

2009-10-21T16:16:00.007-04:00

Just another fine pile of compost (err - article) about this race track.

Atlanta, Georgia to Unveil Eco-friendly Motorsports Park

By: Jenny Bengen on 09 30, 2009

According to this article from Environmental Leader, Atlanta is in the process of constructing a sustainable, two-mile long racetrack for car and racing aficionados. It will be called the Atlanta Motorsports Park, and it will be (an incredibly expensive) private club - $100,000 to join.

What’s attractive about this park, though, is that it will be very environmentally friendly, an idea which, in the past, has not necessarily go hand in hand with a racing track.

Check out the future park’s green attributes:
- waterless urinals
- tank-less water heaters
- using reclaimed water for all irrigation
- recycling all the garbage and oil
- high efficiency HVAC systems and lighting
- thermal resistant windows

It’s wonderful to see such an environmentally responsible project being built in an industry which is known for nasty emissions and waste products. Hopefully this is the start of a new green trend in this arena.

Dawson News & Advertister - Judge requests more information in case against motorsports park, city

2009-09-23T10:43:00.004-04:00

Judge requests more information in case against motorsports park, city

by A.J. Puckett

Dawson News & Advertiser

Defendants Jeremy Porter of Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP), the City of Dawsonville, and EHK (Ernie Elliott) Investments appeared in court in Dawson County on Friday, Sept. 18, to seek a dismissal of the suit filed against them by Dr. West and Helen Hamryka.

The lawsuit was filed in May, just after the Dawsonville City Council approved the rezoning of the land for the motorsports park. The Hamrykas own a home and horse farm across from the 152-acre car park site on Duck Thurmond Road, off Highway 53 West.

The defendants were requesting the dismissal on the grounds that the individual defendants were not served with the lawsuit in a reasonable amount of time, more than 70 days from the time of filing to the time of serving. The defendants claimed that this gave them an unfair advantage and, if the suit were an appeal, it would have reached a statute of limitations.

The defendants also argued that no nuisance exists to cause the damages the Hamrykas are claiming, the plaintiffs are only claiming there will be one.

The plaintiffs' attorney, Richard Wingate, rebutted the statute of limitations because the suit was filed as a mandamus and a declaratory judgment, of which neither has a statute of limitations.

Wingate argued that while there currently is no nuisance, his clients should not be forced to wait until the nuisance is created to prevent it.

Superior Court Judge Kathlene F. Gosselin did not make a decision on the defendants’ requests for dismissal. Instead, the two sides are to prepare further briefs to be submitted concurrently on Friday, Oct. 2.

Gosselin said that she had considered dropping the nuisance portion of the suit but was interested in seeing case law that was more relevant from the plaintiffs.

“We are happy with how today went and we’re expecting a long court case to come,” West Hamryka said Friday after the hearing.

As part of their case to stop the construction of AMP, the Hamrykas have filed affidavits from clients claiming they would take their business elsewhere if the park is constructed.

“I pray that the law and the process prevail, because we have followed the law
and the process to the letter,” Porter said on Monday.

It also was revealed during the hearing that AMP finalized the purchase of the land from EHK Investments on Sept. 17.

Dawson Community News: Developer closes on car park property

2009-09-23T09:55:00.014-04:00

Nice to see the reporter work in the always positive, marketing/promotional copy for Mr. Porter. Additionally, the Dawson News & Advertiser published a story today about the lawsuit. Unfortunately, the paper is not listing entire articles online, so we're unable to post it. Nevertheless, go pick-up a copy for additional coverage on this developing story. Chances are, their take on it will not read like an advertisement for AMP.

EDIT - see above for News & Advertiser story. Called that one.

Developer closes on car park property

Lawsuit will return to court next month

Less than 24 hours before a judge was to rule on a lawsuit aimed at stopping a proposed motorsports park in western Dawson County, the developer closed on the property.

Jeremy Porter must wait about two weeks before he can begin obtaining the necessary permits to begin construction.

The time will give attorneys on both sides an opportunity to resubmit motions and clarify the lawsuit.

West and Helen Hamryka, who live across from the property on Duck Thurmond Road, filed the suit earlier this year against Atlanta Motrosports Park, the City of Dawsonville and EHK (Ernie Elliott).

Friday, the defendants named in the lawsuit asked the court to dismiss the civil case.

Attorneys for the Hamrykas contend the city violated zoning procedure when approving Porter’s rezoning request for the 152 acres in April.

The suit also maintains the defendants are responsible “for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

The Hamrykas operate a horse farm on the site.

Superior Court Judge Kathlene Gosselin said she considered tossing out the latter claim since there was no way to know “reasonably certainty” that a nuisance would exist until the park was built.

“It hasn’t happened yet,” she said, adding there would be opportunities throughout the permitting process to claim and prove nuisance. “I am leaning toward granting the motion to dismiss that.”

Instead, Gosselin held off and gave each side two more weeks to prepare briefs and rewrite motions that better suit the case at hand.

Much of the discussions Friday involved the amount of time between when the lawsuit was filed in Superior Court and when the defendants were formally served.

The defendants were not served for more than 40 days, according to statements in court.

In the motion to dismiss, filed in July, attorneys for Porter say the plaintiff’s “failure to diligently serve the defendants with any complaint during the 30-day limitation period for appeals on zoning decisions” should dismiss the counts.

Gosselin told attorneys from both sides to determine whether the issue was an appeal.

“This is not an appeal,” said Dawsonville attorney Dana Miles. “They never filed an appeal to the zoning. They also never filed a notice of appeal, which is a separate document from the appeal itself.”

Attorneys for the Hamrykas agreed.

“If this case is dismissed, we could refile it tomorrow, and surely we would,” said attorney Richard Wingate.

Thomas Calkins, attorney for Elliott, who sold the property on Duck Thurmond Road to Porter, said his client “will have no involvement in or control over any construction or development” and “is not a proper party in the lawsuit.”

“Without damage, there can be no cause of action,” Calkins said.

Porter has called the lawsuit, which he said is an attempt to deter investors, frivolous from the
beginning.

But neither investors nor those involved with development have been swayed, according to Porter.

He announced last week Bryan Moss, former chairman of Gulfstream Aerospace, was added to the park’s board of advisors.

He currently also sits on the board for the Skip Barber Racing School and has a deep understanding of motorsports.

“Bryan adds dimension to our team with his vast success in corporate America, his ability to build a world-class brand, and his excellence in serving his clients,” Porter said.

“We plan to tap into that intellectual capital for our business and members to help prevent pitfalls and accelerate the successes.”

Billed as unique and eco-friendly, the track was designed by Formula One engineers at Tilke Architects. It was shortened to less than 2 miles and tweaked to meet city-imposed guidelines.

“Some of the greatest minds in motorsports say they believe this track will become truly legendary,” Porter said. “This is going to be something that’s going to be like no other motorsports park in the world.”

Billed as a motorsports country club, plans call for nearly two miles of a high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles, a members-only lounge, 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

One condition of the zoning is to have the development running within three years, which Porter said still is the plan.

Word from the courthouse today...

2009-09-18T15:52:00.007-04:00

Both parties were told to come back in two weeks. No ruling was issued today - to dismiss the suit as Developer Jeremy Porter requested. Stay tuned.

I would also like to note that in the press, Porter said that he would not countersue the Hamryka's, but of course he didn't stick to his word. Not surprising.

The lawsuit was filed some time ago. This must be part of that good neighbor mantra. Invade their neighborhood, blast them with sound from the race track and now sue 'em if they don't lay down and take it.

Nevertheless, both Dawson Co. papers were in attendance, so you can expect something (emphasis added) to appear in the next few days.

Also, around town there are grumblings that some AMP investors are not pleased, as Porter is not delivering on what was promised. Again, act surprised. Could this be a sign of things to come? Will investor's start dropping from the project? This might be something for the Dawsonville journos to investigate. What's not being delivered? Surely, the hay bales to control the sound from the track are not too capital intensive.

Advertisement by the Dawson Community News for Race Track

2009-08-28T10:03:00.007-04:00

See below advertisement for race track - courtesy of the Dawson Community News. Nice of her to seek comment from other opponents. Last I checked there are plenty. I guess the Thurmond's weren't available for comment either and the other 100 to 200 people that attended those staged city meetings weren't either.

Interesting, I'm going to propose building a noisy commercial development next to Porter's house and his neighbors, and see if they think it's frivolous.

Defendants want lawsuit dismissed

Developer says matter is ‘frivolous’

The parties named in a lawsuit aimed at blocking plans for a motorsports country club in western Dawson County hope a judge will dismiss the matter next month.

The city of Dawsonville, EHK (Ernie Elliott) Investments and Jeremy Porter, founder of Atlanta Motorsports Park, have each filed motions to dismiss the civil suit.

West and Helen Hamryka, who own a home and horse farm across from the 152-acre car park site, contend the city violated zoning procedure when approving Porter’s rezoning request in April.

The suit also claims the defendants are responsible “for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

According to court documents, the Hamrykas seek an injunction to prevent construction of the motorsports park, as well as at least $3 million in damages, plus legal fees.

Although filed in Superior Court in May, Porter said the defendants were not formally served with the lawsuit until more than 40 days later.

In the motion to dismiss, filed in July, attorneys for Porter say the plaintiff’s “failure to diligently serve the defendants with any complaint during the 30-day limitation period for appeals on zoning decisions” should dismiss the counts.

The motions to dismiss also address the Hamrykas’ nuisance complaint, which Porter said would not be determined for months, if ever.

Dawsonville administrator Kim Cornelison said the city does not plan to comment on the lawsuit, which Northeastern Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Kathleen Gosselin is scheduled to hear Sept. 18.

The Hamrykas’ attorney did not return numerous phone calls seeking comment.

Attorneys for Elliott, who currently owns the property on Duck Thurmond Road, say their client “will have no involvement in or control over any construction or development” once the property changes hands.

As a result, the attorneys contend, Elliott “is not a proper party in the lawsuit,” according to court documents.

Porter calls the lawsuit “frivolous” and a way to try to deter investors.

“But our investors, our members, laugh at this,” he said, adding that he signed $100,000 in new memberships July 30 when the track design was unveiled in Roswell.

The unique, eco-friendly track was designed by Formula One engineers at Tilke Architects. It was shortened to less than 2 miles and tweaked to meet city-imposed guidelines.

“Some of the greatest minds in motorsports say they believe this track will become truly legendary, 141 feet of elevation changes and two of the most famous turns in motorsports have been incorporated into the track,” Porter said.

“This is going to be something that’s going to be like no other motorsports park in the world.”
Billed as a motorsports country club, plans call for nearly two miles of a high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles, a members-only lounge, 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

Founding member Donna Clifford sees the project as a wonderful and unique opportunity that will allow her to enjoy her “car with good people in a wonderful location and a safe environment.”
Sports car enthusiast Chuck Smith of Cumming agreed.

“I’ve been to every zoning meeting and have watched it since I first heard about the motorsports park,” he said. “I’m 57 and can finally afford the cars I’ve dreamed about my whole life. I’m excited about it.”

E-mail Michele Hester at michele@dawsonnews.com.

Dawson News & Advertiser: Motorsports park moves forward despite lawsuit

2009-06-24T11:37:00.005-04:00

Plans for the future Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP) continue to develop with the announcement of a partnership with Tilke Engineers & Architects for the redesign of the track. Tilke has been involved with nearly every modern-era Formula One track constructed in the last 10 years, according to AMP developer Jeremy Porter.

The announcement comes a few weeks after West and Helen Hamryka filed suit against Porter, Atlanta Motorsports Park, the City of Dawsonville, Dawsonville City Council, and EHK (Ernie Elliott) Investments. Elliot is the seller of the property.

The Hamrykas own a home and horse farm across from the 152-acre car park site on Duck Thurmond Road, off Highway 53 West. The Hamrykas say they will be negatively affected by the presence of the park."We are committed to fight and save our home and community from this loud and offensive racetrack," said West Hamryka. "We are disappointed that the mayor and city council betrayed their own citizens in favor of special interest groups, and

I am confident that the voters will remember them on election day."

The suit claims that the defendants are responsible "for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas'] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business."

However, the suit filed in Dawson County Superior Court is looking to block the construction of the park and for $3 million in damages, plus legal fees. But Porter seems unaffected."

Our investors and members laughed when they heard about the lawsuit," Porter said Tuesday. "This suit is abusing and frivolous."

Porter also mentioned that AMP had yet to be served with the lawsuit as of Tuesday.

According to Porter, the organization has sold more than $400,000 in memberships in the last 35 days.

"We've continued to move forward and do very well on memberships," said Porter.

AMP also is planning an unveiling party for the redesign July 30. Porter has stated that he still plans to break ground later this fall.

"We're expecting a huge ripple effect in the community with the businesses that will come with this project," said Porter.

Earlier this month, AMP announced a partnership with HFD1Motorsports, which provides trackside services and shop performance services to motorcyclists. HFD1Motorsports also services the motorcycle enthusiasts with shop services and maintenance of the motorcycle.

HFD1Motorsports and Balance Motorsports are currently looking at locating their headquarters at AMP. Porter also mentioned that AMP has already declined eight offers from companies interested in locating at AMP.

Porter said he was excited that the Skip Barber Driving School, which is the largest in the nation, will be the official driving school of AMP.

The lawsuit against the City of Dawsonville is claiming that the city failed to follow Georgia's zoning procedure by not requiring a Development of Regional Impact study. The suit claims that such a is required for any "mixed use facility."

On Tuesday, Dawsonville City Clerk Kim Cornelison said the city could not comment on any pending litigation.

AMP plans to unveil the design for the new driving course at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 30, at Hennessey Porsche in Roswell. According to Porter, the new track will be the only Tilke track in the U.S. and will help make AMP the only eco-friendly motorsports park in the world.

Speed Channel Commentator Bob Varsha will be the master of ceremonies for the event. Guests will have the opportunity to study three-dimensional images of the new course. Atlanta Falcons' wide receiver Michael Jenkins and a number of other celebrities will be in attendance.

Stolen signs

2009-06-23T17:18:00.008-04:00

So, we hear that the bandit is a 20 something year-old from White Co. that comes down to Dawsonville to steal signs. Comically, this bozo has been spotted in the act - license plate and all. But fortunately for him, Dawson County's finest won't do anything about it. Now act surprised!

Signs on private property are now okay to steal? So, if people steal other items from your yard, I guess that's okay too? The police reportedly said the signage owners needed to have "No Trespassing" signs posted in order to charge the brazen bandit. Nice, eh?

Now that I think about it, I need some new patio furniture, a new lawn mower and a few other items.

Move AMP recommends the following sign:

Lawsuit challenges motorsports park

2009-06-23T17:09:00.002-04:00

From the Dawson Community News:

Defendants say case ‘frivolous and abusive’

The attorney for a couple attempting to block the construction of a motorsports country club in western Dawson County vows a lengthy legal battle.

“We are going to fight this all the way,” said Richard Wingate, who represents West and Helen Hamryka.

“The complaint speaks for itself. If build out and construction of the project is as planned, it’s going to just ruin my clients’ livelihood.”

The Hamrykas, who own a home and horse farm across from the 152-acre car park site, have filed suit against developer Jeremy Porter, Atlanta Motorsports Park, the city of Dawsonville, Dawsonville City Council, and EHK (Ernie Elliott) Investments.

The suit, filed last month in Superior Court, claims the defendants are responsible “for the unlawful interference of [the Hamrykas’] right to enjoy the possession of their property and for the disruption of their business.”

According to court documents, the Hamrykas seek an injunction to prevent construction of the motorsports park, as well as at least $3 million in damages, plus legal fees.

The suit, also claims the city of Dawsonville violated Georgia’s zoning procedure act and should have required a Development of Regional Impact study before approving the “mixed use facility.”

Several defendants in the civil case say the suit is frivolous.

“We think the lawsuit is an abuse of the process,” said co-defendant Jeremy Porter, founder of Atlanta Motorsports Park. “Four different attorneys are telling us they think this is a frivolous and abusive suit.”

Billed as a country club for sports car enthusiasts, the Atlanta Motorsports Park plan calls for nearly three miles of high performance road course for two- and four-wheel vehicles, a members-only lounge, 10,000 square foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

As of early this week, the defendants had not seen the lawsuit. Still, Porter said, he sees the filing as a scare tactic.

“We think that by filing a lawsuit they are trying to dissuade investors from buying into the park,” said Porter, adding that he has the opportunity to counter sue, but plans instead to take what he called the “ethical” road.

Porter said the suit has not hindered membership sales.

“The goal is to pay cash for the land, and we think we’re going to be able to do that,” he said.
Landowner and co-defendant Ernie Elliott said last week he is concerned for every property owner in the country if a lawsuit can be filed against a landowner wanting to sell his property.

“We’ve invested in the real estate for ages now with the idea that we’d sell it some day,” Elliott said. “That’s exactly what we’re doing now. We listed the property with a legitimate real estate agent, and now we have a legitimate buyer.

“If they think they can sue the property owner for trying to sell his property, every other property owner in the country should take a hard look at this. It’s going to set some hard precedent.”

Dawsonville administrator Kim Cornelison said the city does not plan to comment on the lawsuit, which it hasn’t received.

“Our attorney has a copy and has perused through it,” she said. “But right now, if we’re not served, as far as we’re concerned, there is no lawsuit.”

Because city ordinances are in question, Wingate said, there was a timeline to file the suit and “certified copies are required in the records.”

“We now have amended the complaint with the certified copies,” he said. “The defendants will be served soon.”

Regardless of litigation, Porter said he plans to break ground on the project this fall.
“We’re coming up swinging,” he said.

Preliminary estimates by the Development Authority of Dawson County have indicated Porter’s project could bring in as much as $4 million in tax revenue over the next decade.

The development could also attract dozens of new jobs to the county.

“We have nothing to do with the racing park,” Elliott said. “That can be verified by anybody. But that’s not to say I’m not for it. I’m for any business that will bring jobs and growth to this county.

“I want to know that if something happens to this business my employees can have the opportunity to go across the street and get high-paying jobs without having to drive to Atlanta.”

Dawson Community News: Porter in talks to lure businesses to car park

2009-06-10T12:15:00.004-04:00

Porter in talks to lure businesses to car park

Negotiations between Atlanta Motorsports Park developer Jeremy Porter and a high-performance repair facility that wants to relocate to Dawsonville are in the final stages.

“I’m so excited about the new partnership to bring Balanced Performance Motorsports to AMP,” Porter said.

Billed as the South’s premier repair and performance facility, Balance Performance Motorsports plans to move its entire Sugar Hill operation, which includes maintenance and fabrications, to the motorsports country club site that is expected to break ground in western Dawson County by fall.

“We feel that AMP can offer us and our customers many opportunities not available at our current location,” said Chuck Ellis, co-owner and CEO of Balanced Performance. “We feel AMP can bring us not only an incredible sales and marketing team, but also a world class facility and location that is unmatched in the industry.”

Porter received final zoning approval from Dawsonville City Council in April for the project, which will sit on about 152 acres between Duck Thurmond Road and Hwy. 183.

Neighbors bitterly opposed the project, vowing to fight its approval in court.

According to city clerk Kim Cornelison a lawsuit was filed in Dawson County Superior Court May 7. She said the city has not yet been formally served.

The facility will include nearly three miles of high performance road course for fast, exotic cars, karts and bikes, a members-only lounge, 10,000 square foot clubhouse, pool and hiking trails.

The Balanced Performance partnership will be an added bonus for club members, who will be able to receive free technical and track readiness support from BMP professionals and official tech inspectors for the National Auto Sport Association, said BPM co-owner Jason Plante.

“We want all AMP members to feel confident that their cars are safe and ready to drive,” Plante said.

Porter said other businesses, including a fine dining restaurant, and agencies also are looking at the site.

Among those interested is Track Chic, an organization that celebrates women involved in the racing industry through an online journal documenting their development.

“There is an impressive group of women on the AMP Team working hard to push this forward,” said Track Chic President Theresa Earnheart. “The online journal will go live within the next few weeks and bring an intimate, female perspective on all aspects of AMP’s development. Women who follow along will feel part of the AMP Family as we build momentum for the grand opening.”

Porter said he is awaiting a redesign of the driving course, as required by city council.

Strike that (for now): Dawsonville not in running for car plant

2009-05-13T13:34:00.001-04:00

Dawsonville not in running for car plant

Company chairman says report ‘highly inappropriate’

Recent talk that a high performance police car automaker was considering a site in Dawsonville may have been wishful thinking on the part of a local real estate agent.

William Santana Li, chairman and chief executive officer of Carbon Motors, said the announcement was “highly inappropriate” and no discussions have taken place about a possible site in Dawsonville.

“There is one site in Georgia we are focused on and that’s Braselton,” Li said Monday afternoon. “We’re not looking at Dawsonville. There have been no meetings, no discussions. There never were and at this rate there never will be.”

Li said Carbon Motors could decide on a site by the end of July.

“I don’t have time for this, and I don’t appreciate it,” he said.

Carolyn Cantrell made a presentation to the Dawsonville City Council last week, saying she was attempting to woo the automaker to a site across Hwy. 183 from the Elliott Racing Complex.
Cantrell, who could not be reached for comment this week, also facilitated the land sale between the developer of a proposed motorsports park and Ernie Elliott on Duck Thurmond Road.

She told council last week the property was ideal for the automaker due to its proximity to Elliott’s airport and to Atlanta Motorsports Park, which the city council approved last month.
She estimated the plant’s overall economic impact at $3 billion over 10 years, with as many as 2,000 employees by the time the plant reaches full capacity.

Dawsonville Mayor Joe Lane Cox said Tuesday it would have been nice to have the plant in Dawsonville, but he was “just glad they’re wanting to stay in Georgia.”

“This was brought to us,” Cox said. “We didn’t go out and pursue it. We let [Cantrell] speak last week, because like I said then, I wanted to get this started right, with the facts up front, so people would know what’s going on.

Councilwoman Linda Grant echoed Cox’s sentiments.

“Hopefully, by Dawsonville being brought up in the conversation, we will get some companies that will come here and create new jobs. We have so many people, and so many youth, that need work.”

While it may not include Carbon Motors, motorsports park developer Jeremy Porter said industry will follow the site.

Late last week, Porter said he had confirmation that three automotive companies were preparing to relocate to Dawsonville.

“Those three include one major company in the motor world that’s willing to relocate its headquarters to Atlanta Motorsports Park,” he said.

Porter said two motorsports companies in the Sugar Hill area were interested in relocating to Dawsonville.

Steve Holder, planning director for the city, said he has not heard from any specific businesses.
Preliminary estimates by the Development Authority of Dawson County indicated the motorsports park would be an economic stimulator for the area, with other like industry following suit.

According to Porter, legendary Formula One track architects, Tilke, has agreed to design the local course.

“That’s huge,” Porter said. “They are responsible for nearly every modern-era Formula One track designed in the last 10 years. By partnering with the foremost track designer, AMP has taken further steps to ensure we will stand out as North America’s premier facility for motorsports enthusiasts.”

Porter said he continues to talk with other automotive companies that would also fit in well with the motorsports park.

“Others will follow and are paying a lot more attention now that we have the zoning to move forward,” he said.

E-mail Michele Hester at michele@dawsonnews.com.

Car plant looking to locate in Dawsonville

2009-05-12T10:00:00.007-04:00

Car plant looking to locate in Dawsonville could create 2,000 jobs in coming years

by Lori Robinson

Dawson News & Advertiser

After a somewhat laid back and quiet Dawsonville City Council meeting on Monday, May 4, Mayor Joe Lane Cox took the opportunity during closing announcements to address the possibility of a new car plant coming to the city.

Carolyn Cantrell, a Dawson County native and representative of Talking Rock Realty, presented information regarding the car plant to the council.

The car plant, called Carbon Motors, specializes in cars geared specifically toward law enforcement and is looking at Dawsonville as a potential site for its future facility.

Carbon Motors, based in Atlanta, is considering a site near the controversial site of the soon-to-be constructed Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP). Elliott Family Parkway has been in the news for the past year as local residents and AMP developer Jeremy Porter went head to head, with Porter receiving unanimous approval from the city council last month to move ahead with construction of AMP - a motorsports country club to be located on approximately 150 acres belonging to the Elliott family on Duck Thurmond Road off Highway 53 West.

The mayor and council, as well as Cantrell, expressed worries that more controversy would ignite over Carbon Motors' potential interest in another parcel of Elliott family property.

"We want people to have all the facts about this, get all the information and then if they're against it, they're against it," Cox said at the meeting Monday.

Cantrell explained that the plant would be a facility to build police cars exclusively. It would not be partnered with any car companies. Rather, Carbon Motors would build each unit from the ground up. The cars would be constructed solely for the safety and comfort of the police officers who would drive them.

"This company has looked at two other sites in the State of Georgia," Cantrell said, addressing the mayor and council. "Things have come up with both of those sites that could possibly put Georgia out of the running for this plant. We heard about it and approached Carbon Motors."

Cantrell said the company initially told her realty company "no," until it was made aware Dawsonville could offer a facility such as AMP for the testing of its vehicles, as well as the Elliott's garage and nearby airport access.

The parcel of land in question is a track of 200-250 acres on Highway 183/Elliot Family Parkway, owned by the Elliott family.

"The first thing we want to make sure is that public knows the Elliott's are not involved in this deal," Cantrell said. "They've got the land, they're selling it, but that's as far as their involvement goes."

Cantrell says it "terrifies" her that Georgia may be passed up on this opportunity.

"We want to come to everyone concerned, let them know what's going on from the very beginning," she said. "Let them know what this company can do for this county as a whole." In the beginning, the plant is estimated to create about 200-250 jobs, with job growth projected to reach nearly 2,000 in the coming years.

"This plant won't be owned or partnered with Ford or any other car maker, so there won't be a large production rate," Cantrell said. "We're guessing somewhere in the neighborhood of 10,000 cars per year. They're starting with a clean slate. They're doing the building marketing and service of the cars and, when these cars wear out, they plan to recycle them. This is a one-company show." Cantrell said the biggest benefit of Carbon Motors coming to Dawsonville Cantrell would be the creation of more local jobs.

"This will enable our children to stay within our county and work rather than having to leave home to find work," she said.

"The difference between here and anywhere else is that they would have to build from the ground up somewhere else," she added. "If they come here, they will already have the potential use of the motorsports park track for testing. They like the idea of Porter's driving course and, when it's totally finished, the executives of the company will come here to look at it. If they're interested, they would have Ernie Elliott's shop where they could set up business immediately."
Cantrell estimates it will be four to six weeks before Carbon Motors' executives will come to Dawsonville.

The executives are still looking at Pooler and Braselton as potential sites but, according to Cantrell, it's obvious that Dawson County and the City of Dawsonville have more to offer.

"We're at the beginning stages of trying to entice [Carbon Motors] to come here. We'd like your support and your help," she said, appealing to the mayor and council, and mentioning Carbon Motors is set on having its site chosen by July of this year.

There are a lot of other states clamoring for this company, Cantrell pointed out. She said only one refused. North Carolina turned down Carbon Motors because of the company's non-union status.

"To us, this is a plus," Cantrell said. "It relieves a company of a lot of pressure that can either make or break it."

In the long run, Cantrell said the plant would save Georgia a lot of money in the purchase of police cruisers.

"It costs more to buy a street car and get it ready for law enforcement in the long run," she said. "These cars won't be cheap, but the operating of them will be 40 percent less than what we are paying now. It makes good sense for cities and counties to replace their old cars with these as they can."

Production of the Carbon Motors' cars in Dawsonville could begin by 2012.

There is another site nearby that also has potential, Cantrell warned. Cherokee County could become a front-runner if Dawsonville turns down the opportunity to welcome Carbon Motors to the community.

"The Cherokee plant would possibly have to transport its cars up here to the track," she said, "so it just makes more sense to have it here."

After listening to Cantrell's presentation, Cox said he appreciated her input.

"I feel it would be a good opportunity," he said. "We've sat on our duffs for too long and let too many opportunities go by. We just want to make sure that all the facts are out there."

"I think it would be most wonderful for the economy of both Dawson County and Georgia if we can get [Carbon Motors] here," Cantrell said. "We jumped on it when we heard that Georgia may be out of the running for it and we're in the process of trying to get them to see Dawsonville as a site of choice."

Cantrell, daughter of the late Duck Thurmond, said she's not worried about an operation like Carbon Motors affecting the quality of life on Highway 183.

"If dad were living, he would applaud this," she said. "Duck Thurmond was absolutely for progress. I know how beautiful that area is up there, I grew up there and I wouldn't do anything to cause harm to it."

She also feels strongly about the importance of what Carbon Motors does.

"My son is in law enforcement. I feel this will improve [officers'] comfort and way of working," she said.

For more information about Carbon Motors, visit http://www.carbonmotors.com/.

Yesterday's around town sighting...

2009-05-12T09:38:00.005-04:00

Move AMP received word on an intersting, "around town" sighting yesterday. Our source was coming home from the grocery store and drove by the Pool Room, and who was coming out?

Mike Berg, chairman of the county commissioners, Joey Homans, county attorney, Gordon Pirkle, Downtown Development Authority member, Joe Lane Cox, the beloved motorized mayor, and Jeremy Porter, AMP developer, all smiles.

Source reportedly said she stopped to say hello to Berg.

Source remarked, "Who'd have thought you'd be keeping such good company?"

He just said, "hello" in response.

Source also claims (to no surprise) they were seen shaking hands and acting like they'd just wrapped up another one of those famous backroom, off the record meetings.

Dawson Community News: City in hunt for police car plant

2009-05-12T09:31:00.004-04:00

Well, after months of stonewalling by city and county officials, it appears we now know more about the master plan for the property.

City in hunt for police car plant

Carbon Motors eyes site near motorsports park

Dawsonville is in the running for an assembly plant that would build a specialized, high performance police car.

Real estate agent Carolyn Cantrell told the Dawsonville City Council on Monday night that Carbon Motors is interested in 200 to 250 acres on Hwy. 183, across from the Elliott Racing Complex.

The proposed plant would produce the Carbon E7, a prototype police cruiser that could go up to 155 mph and feature voice control, night-vision cameras and a license plate recognition system. The automaker is expected to make a decision by July. Cantrell estimated the plant’s overall economic impact at $3 billion over 10 years. The initial 250 new jobs could grow to as many as 2,000 when the plant reached full capacity.

Numerous factors, including access to major automotive suppliers and Dawsonville’s proximity to Atlanta, attracted Carbon to the site. But the key, Cantrell said, was the recently approved motorsports park on Duck Thurmond Road.

“Wherever they (Carbon Motors) go, they’re going to have to have a test track,” she said. City council last month approved zoning for a sports car country club, which would include nearly three miles of high performance road course.

Preliminary estimates by the Development Authority of Dawson County indicated the motorsports park would be an economic stimulator for the area, with other like industry following suit.

Dawsonville Mayor Joe Lane Cox said he did not want to pass up the opportunity.

“We need to dig in and push ourselves,” he said. “We’ve let some good opportunities slip by.”

Cantrell facilitated the land deal between motorsports park developer Jeremy Porter and Ernie Elliott. The Elliotts also own the property Cantrell is showing the automaker.

“The only involvement the Elliotts have is they are selling the land,” she said. “This is not an Elliott project.”

Earlier this year, the cities of Braselton and Pooler emerged as the two Georgia finalists for the automotive assembly plant. But Braselton appears to have fallen out of the running, Cantrell said, while Pooler is “having problems.”

“This area is by far a better spot for it,” she said.

Other finalist sites announced by the company include Connersville, Ind., Plymouth, Mich., Charlotte, N.C., and Greenville and Spartanburg, S.C.

Based in Atlanta, Carbon Motors prefers to stay in Georgia, Cantrell said.

Representatives from Carbon Motors are expected in town within the next few weeks to review the proposed site, nearby racing complex and plans for the motorsports park.

William Santana Li, Carbon Motors’ founder and chief executive officer, said in a statement that the company is working to “foster the public-private sector collaboration needed to provide our first responders the equipment they so sorely need.”

Carbon Motors is prepared to invest more than $350 million in developing and producing the Carbon E7, which is slated for production in 2012. The car will be powered by a biodiesel capable engine that uses clean diesel technology.

Dawson County Sheriff’s Lt. Col. Greg Rowan is familiar with the prototype and encouraged that Carbon Motors is considering the local site.

“A few years ago, they asked for suggestions on what officers need in patrol cars,” Rowan said. For his comments, Rowan won a contest to receive one of the first cars off the assembly line.

“We’re looking forward to getting the car,” he said.

The Downtown Development Authority also appears on board with bringing the automaker to Dawsonville, though at least one member expects some opposition.

Authority member Gordon Pirkle said he thinks the same group that opposed the motorsports park will fight to keep industry out of the rural area.

“But we’ve got to look at it this way,” Pirkle said. “We’ve got to do things to keep our kids here after high school and college. They aren’t going to stay here in Dawson County for retail jobs, and this would bring good, high-paying jobs.

“I can’t believe anyone wouldn’t want that.”

Judging by the pictures, we'd fight as well to keep that pristine, secluded area

2009-04-15T11:49:00.013-04:00

Great pictures of the Hamryka's farm, as seen in Big Canoe's Smoke Signals. Bottom line, it doesn't matter... wealthy, low income, farm, business owner, middle income, low income - whatever. It stinks for everyone involved next to this pending mess. And people that aren't living next to it and keep talking smack about the opposition and supporting the project. Well, those jackhammers need to be the first ones to trade places with adjacent homeowners. Put up or shut up! If you dig it so much, then move closer to it.

Smoke Signals: Dawsonville okays AMP rezoning; Hamryka’s vow to fight on, pursue legal action

2009-04-14T10:48:00.002-04:00

Dawsonville okays AMP rezoning

Hamryka’s vow to fight on, pursue legal action By Barbara Schneider

bschneider@bigcanoenews.com

Fifteen minutes into its Monday night meeting, the Dawsonville City Council unanimously approved rezoning 152 acres along Duck Thurmond Road for the proposed Atlanta Motorsports Park.

The Council’s vote will reclassify a portion of 1,500 acres currently owned by the Elliot family along Duck Thurmond Road near Hwy 53 from residential 1 to CIR (restricted industrial district). Before the vote, Steve Holder, Dawsonville’s Planning Director, read 22 stipulations the Council attached to the proposal. When constructed, AMP will be about four miles from Big Canoe’s north gate.

Old business

The zoning change, listed as old business on the Council’s April 13 agenda, comes after months of public meetings, protests from Citizens4 Dawson and concerned neighbors, and a slick PR campaign from AMP developer Jeremy Porter.

As soon as Mayor Joe Lane Cox announced the rezoning was approved -- and while scattered boos and cheers erupted from opposing sides in the crowded council chamber -- AMP’s PR people handed the media a two-page press release beginning with a “We could not have received better news. I am ecstatic,” quote from developer Porter. The release listed “strategic partners and contractors who had already been selected “in anticipation of the [rezoning] approval.”

Opposes AMP

Meeting with the media after the vote, Wes(t) Hamryka, who owns a 70-acre horse farm directly across Duck Thurmond Road from the proposed motorsports park, vowed to continue the fight. “It’s what we expected at this stage,” he said when asked about the council’s vote to approve rezoning. “We are prepared to take this to the next legal step.”

When asked by an Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter why he would be willing to spend possibly a hundred thousand dollars to fight the city, Hamryka replied, “The Council only voted to change zoning on one property but the precedent is set for the next developer who comes in.” The City, he said, basically threw out the land use plan approved last year. He is prepared to sue the City of Dawsonville for improper spot zoning and willing to take the City through protracted legal battle.

Cartoon ad in today's Dawson News & Advertiser about AMP

2009-04-08T11:14:00.005-04:00

Image of AMP ad that appeared in today's paper - courtesy of Sam Horner. Enjoy.

And be on the lookout for the below.

Dawson Community News: Letter by James Thurmond

2009-03-27T13:05:00.002-04:00

From this week's paper - a great letter penned by James Thurmond.

Thanks to all opposing the park

My name is James Thurmond and I love my family.

I would like to state publicly that, for me, one of the few good things that has come from this terribly wrenching debate over the inappropriate placement of the Atlanta Motorsports Park on Duck Thurmond Road in Dawson County is that I have met so many wonderful people these past few months that I may never have had the real honor of knowing otherwise.

While this debate burns ineffably around us, and what was once a strong, united community now sees its future dangling perilously on the threshold of permanent division, I have met what I modestly consider to be the most compassionate and indomitable group of citizens who, like me, are vehemently against the placement of this park on our road.

I am standing with these citizens against this park because it promises to threaten our lives, our quality of life and our livelihoods in a manner insouciant to everything we hold dear.

Wrapped within the gilded folds of “good intentions” lies a project that will upend the lives of hundreds of families in the surrounding area and mercilessly trample upon the sylvan beauty of our backyards.

We will not find peace next to this noisy and noisome injustice.

This park will rend the very flesh of the restful contentment so many families here have worked so hard to achieve and fought so long to preserve.

Beauty within Dawson County will be threatened. We will become over-developed, over-polluted and over-burdened.

Our fresh air will turn putrid, our trees will be felled and our water will become undrinkable.

I fight this because there is nothing in life I hold dearer or closer to my heart than my family. I would not see them be made to suffer just so some extremely selfish people can have a “place to play.”

I find this attitude deplorable and insulting.

Regardless of the gold-plated promises, I have no doubt that we will all be made to suffer for the careless greed of a few if this project passes.

And when it fails, we, as the taxpayers of this county, will be left holding a wasteland of broken promises, darkness and ashes.

The pieces left will be ours to clean up.

We’ve been called “whiners,” the opposition.

Of course we’re “whiners.” Loud and clear.

I should hope that those supporting this park would whine too if their families were being threatened the way ours are.

But that’s what honorable people do. They fight for their friends and neighbors. They fight for their families.

They ignore the aggrandizing rhetoric and search for the truth.

So, to all the wonderful people I’ve met opposing this park I would like to extend my eternal thanks.

You’ve all shown me that there is indeed still true, unblemished honor left in the world.

Indeed, ever since I’ve met the outstanding citizens united against this park, the number of people I consider family has grown exponentially.

James Thurmond

Dawson County
http://www.dawsonnews.com/news/article/1479/