Jackson Speedway to be up for bids

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JACKSON — Jackson County Board of Commissioners unanimously authorized bidding for the Jackson Speedway during their regular Tuesday meeting.

The decision came as a result after a proposal was made by a potential buyer, Tod Quiring.

Commissioner Bill Tusa explained that in the last 12 years, the county had contracted with promoters to maintain basic operations of the speedway.

“For a number of years before, it was run by the VFW,” he added.

The area for sale is approximately 36 acres out of the 47-acre fairgrounds, but Jackson County Coordinator Jan Fransen said that the exact boundaries are still in the discussion phase.

“Because it’s public property, we have to advertise and post bids,” Fransen said. “If it’s not in the best interest of the county taxpayers, the county can refuse the bids.”

Prior to the bidding process, Fransen explained, the land would need to be surveyed to obtain a legal description of it.

According to Tusa, after the three-week bidding advertisement, the land will be sold for one price and not based on the unit price per acre. He explained that improvements were made to the grandstands and concession area for approximately $600,000 about 11 years ago.

“It’s a positive thing for the community to draw in larger crowds,” Tusa added. “We would like to work in a partnership to be able to improve fair and gain exposure for the racing track.”

As a popular racing destination, the sale of the Jackson Speedway could benefit both race attendees and the county. Once sold, the speedway would increase the city’s tax base.

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