City Donates to Monroe Motor Speedway

The city of Monroe makes a big donation to the citys newest tourist attraction, but some are questioning if that money could be better spent elsewhere. The owners of the Monroe Motor Speedway received a $300,000 check Thursday afternoon from the city of Monroe. Word of this donation was met with mixed feelings among people in the community. Avid race fans are ecstatic about the citys investment. Others believe that money could have been put to a better use. Work continues at the Monroe Motor Speedway as the Saturday opening approaches. Meanwhile the managers of the track were at city hall receiving a $300,000 check from city leaders. The money will pay for sewer and road construction on the road leading to the track. Mayor Jamie Mayo says this is a defining moment for the city of Monroe. Sure the mayor and the managers of the raceway are excited about the use of this money, but what do other people in the community think about the six figure donation? Race fans are excited about the contribution and say speed is just what the city needs. Larry Roberts says, “Im for it 100% anything they can do. I think its going to bring more economy to the area." Sha Williams says the attraction is much needed. “Theres always a difference you can make with money. Im sure that money could have been spent in other ways but also we need some type of recreation here in the city." Others say recreation doesnt warrant the large investment of taxpayer dollars. They say other things in the city are more important and deserving. Michael Barraza doesnt agree with the donation. He says "Im sure there are plenty other things that need to be done first before we have a race car track.” Stephanie Perry agrees. She says it could have gone to "organizations, schools, they could have fixed the roads or something like that, but as far as leisure play, I think we could have used it for other things." Its those differing opinions that make the world and the cars go ‘round. Racers will start their engines on the racetrack at 7 oclock Saturday night. (Copyright 2008, NBC 10/Fox 14 News)