BETHEL — The Bethel Motor Speedway requested a renewal of its annual operating permit and added a request to make the track available on three extra weekdays, at a public hearing Wednesday evening held during a regular meeting of the Bethel Town Board.

Several local residents voiced concern about the additional noise and dust affecting nearby homes if the extra days are allowed. In 2023, the track, located at 361 Horseshoe Lake Road in White Lake, was allowed to operate Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays for the season April through October. 

A letter from the General Manager, George Van Arsdall, stated the need for extra revenue “to continue as a local short track venue…We are requesting…to have private open sessions during weekdays  for racers who would like to test their cars for a fee.”

The letter continued: “We have worked very hard to be good neighbors and work with the town, local residents and visitors.”

Residents share opinions

 A.J. Pantel was the first in the audience to speak in favor of the track continuing to operate with extra days. 

“It’s a family venue now. People bring their kids and [baby] carriages. It provides a venue for entertainment that is much needed in Sullivan County. It’s good clean fun for the racers” and it’s “going to be sorely missed if it’s lost.” 

Pantel referred to the Monticello Motor Club which “was welcomed with the red carpet rolled out” and which has “been a boon to the economy.”

Fellow resident Judith Maidenbaum said “the town should help the track with funding. It’s a beautiful venue. They do a beautiful job.” 

Moreen Lerner, manager of the Bethel Local Development Corp., is in favor of the track’s request as good for the economy. 

“We have lost six restaurants. The track brings in traffic, both walking and driving and promotes restaurants,” Lerner said.

“It makes me sad that people are not coming as much as they used to.”

Kathy McFadden, who is a lifelong resident of the area near the speedway stated, “Yes, they close at 11 p.m., but the people are still there.”

“We put up with it now and then but not if it gets more constant,” McFadden said.

Mr. Van Arsdall stated that there’s less noise on Sundays because small cars are quieter, and that the cost of a barrier composed of wood and foam insulation is several thousand dollars. Judith Maidenbaum asked whether a barrier would cut down the noise and dirt. Councilwoman Wendy Brown suggested an assessment of the cost of a barrier.

Supervisor Dan Sturm said, “I understand the concerns of the neighbors.” 

He said that it would be okay to continue to operate at the schedule of Thursdays, 2-5 p.m. and 5-8 p.m., Saturday night until 11 p.m. and small car Sundays. “But to have unlimited access for Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday –  I think that’s too much.”

He said the Town is not allowed to put money in a private business.” 

“I would like to see something done…trees or something to help with the dust.We’re not looking for a 12-foot high barrier.” 

He said he would give the permit “on the stipulation that Mr. Van Arsdall implement some protection from noise and dirt.” 

He is looking for something financially feasible, and they agreed to try to get something in place by May 1 and to communicate at that time.