To Whom It May Concern:

You are receiving this email in response to concerns expressed regarding
Portland International Raceway (PIR). I sincerely apologize for the
mass-email, but Mayor Potter's office received many inquiries about this
issue, and I think clarifying the Mayor's perspective on this to
everyone at once is the most expedient way to respond.

While an enthusiastic headline writer recently wrote that Mayor Potter
asked "Parks to get going in moving PIR," the Mayor's actual request was
less sensational.

At the conclusion of a recent hearing to discuss noise waivers for the
track, the Mayor asked for research to be done to answer three broad
questions:

1. If it was possible to move PIR somewhere else in the city, where
would be the best location, and what kinds of issues for the community
would that present?

2. What costs would be associated with any move; where would that
funding come from, and how would that impact the City?

3. If the answers to the first two questions made a move both
possible and positive, what would be the highest use for the current
location?

The Mayor is aware and supportive of the positive contribution PIR makes
to our community, providing both recreation and a strong boost to our
economy. He is also aware that, as Portland continues to attract
thousands of new residents every year, quality of life issues will
continue to focus attention on the racetrack. He believes the best way
for the community to sort through these issues together is by asking
questions and making the information available to all.

If you still have specific questions about this issue, please do not
hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Van Keuren, Public Advocate
Office of Mayor Tom Potter
Portland, Oregon
503-823-4125
jvankeuren@ci.portland.or.us

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