5.1. PCSR 04-26-2022 - Laserfiche WebLink

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C.U.P. NARRATIVE – 21591 US HWY 169 NW Background ERX was launched in the winter of 2008 and is recognized today as one of the fastest-growing motorsports facilities in the Midwest. With a focus on family-friendly events and grassroots motorsports activities, ERX has been quickly embraced by motorsports enthusiasts of all kinds. ERX was created by Todd Plaisted and Chris Carlson, two Elk River businessmen who are long- time Powersports enthusiasts. Plaisted and Carlson both enjoy participating in Powersports activities with their families. They saw an opportunity to create a facility that would address their love for racing and provide value for the Elk River community. Their original intent was to provide a facility for snocross racing and training. Today, ERX is a year-round complex hosting both snowmobile events in the winter and off-road truck and SxS racing, concerts and extreme 5k’s in the summer months. ERX hosts events for local and regional organizations and non- profits such as Day of the Dozers, Children’s Minnesota fundraiser and the ‘Livin Country Music Festival, whose mission is to promote a positive outlook on life, reduce the stigma associated with depression/mental illness, and ultimately prevent suicide through various activities, events, and outreach. Future uses of the facility may include additional concerts, festivals, product demonstrations and endurance events such as “Tough Mudders” or “Running with the Bulls.” ERX has a long history of growth in the City of Elk River dating back to June of 2008 when we received our first IUP to operate. We’ve built a great relationship with city staff and look forward to our new development opportunity. Plat Update ERX would is proposing an update to a small triangle area on the northeast side of the off-road track (PID: 75-878-0105) to include a track adjustment and put up a viewing deck with a roof to increase seating capacity. ERX has been working with the Minnesota Department of Health for the past six years to develop a strategy for camping at ERX. Discussions have centered around the possible need for ERX to develop an on-site campground, or if there is a way to provide the space on a rental basis to to groups hosting events at ERX, in which they would apply for their own permits. It was determined that any organization can apply for the Special Event Camping Area License (SECA) and that the SECA license is not land specific. This means that ERX Motor Park can utilize their two camping events twice per year. However, if ERX choose to rent out the facility, the