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City council rejects proposal to build mud track for trucks
By THOMAS MICHALSKI
Article published on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007 |
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![[Image]](/content_images/111507_par-03.jpg) |
| Photo by THOMAS MICHALSKI |
| Citizens packed the council chambers and hallways to voice opinions about a proposed mud bog. |
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PINELLAS PARK – The City Council on Nov. 8 rejected a plan to build a “mud bog” for trucks and utility vehicle events after opponents and proponents flooded the chambers and hallways during an hour-long public hearing.
The measure to use a strip of land at 3979 118th Ave. was rejected, 4-1, because officials believe the track is too small for a mud bog operation that draws crowds and a large number of vehicles.
Officials also cited environment, noise and safety concerns for rejecting the plan.
The proposal was outlined by Ted Kwalwasser and his son, Jacob, who wanted to build the bog on a narrow lot surrounded by a car salvage operation and office complex. Kwalwasser said it would be a “family recreation business” that would include the actual mud bog, an audience area with appropriate safety precautions and a vehicle wash area.
The wash area, he said, would be used by drivers so vehicles would not track mud onto 118th Avenue.
Kwalwasser said no alcohol would be sold, nor would be tolerated. He said suspected drinking drivers who wanted to use the facility would be tested with an electronic device similar to those used in bars.
Kwalwasser said the water to create and maintain the bog and to wash vehicles would come from a deep water well on the property. He said noise would not be an issue because the bog would be open only on weekends. He said the nearest residential area is about a half-mile away.
A number of residents spoke for and against the proposal. Leland Wheeler of the Lake Homeowners Association said excessive water usage, accidents and other issues should be considered.
Former Mayor Cecil Bradbury also spoke out against the plan. He said mud on 118th Avenue would be an issue since vehicle washings would not be mandatory. He also cited the possibility of excessive noise.
Ed Kosinski, who is running for one of two city council seats, said the size of the site is too small for a bog operation.
One local bog enthusiast said the business is needed in Pinellas Park to keep people from using “illegal bogs” in different parts of the city.
Councilwoman Patricia Bailey-Snook introduced a motion to reject the plan due to landscaping, safety and environmental issues. She was supported by Mayor Bill Mischler, council members Sandra Bradbury and Ed Taylor.
Councilman Rick Butler, however, was the only one to vote for the proposal. He said the location was ideal since no residential areas were nearby.
“I’ve been mud racing since I was 15 years old,” Butler said. “A mud bog is needed in the city for all the people who enjoy the activity.”
Butler’s sole support was met by a round of applause.
In other matters, Sutherlin Toyota which is undergoing massive reconstruction at its location on U.S. 19, received permission to temporarily store cars across the street from its main facility. The three-phase construction effort is expected to be completed in June 2009. The dealership will not conduct any sales activities at the temporary storage site.
Also approved was a resolution vacating approximately 3.5 feet of a 10 by 61.3-foot drainage and utility easement on property generally located at 3918 97th Ave.
A 4.33-acre parcel of land at 6365 53rd St. is slated to be used for a retail and wholesale plant nursery. The plans call for the construction of a small accessory structure.
The council also approved annexations at 4333 118th Ave., 6044 107th Ave., 6150 107th Ave. and 6021 107th Ave.
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Article published on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007
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