Promoter seeks city support as 'Thunder on the River' rally plans return to Ironton

Donnie Roberts, an Ironton resident and event promoter, told the City Council on Feb. 27 he is organizing a large motorcycle rally called Thunder on the River for Aug. 20–24 and asked the city for logistical support, permission to use public sites and cooperation on public safety.

Roberts said he is not asking the city for financial support; he has invested personal funds and expects revenue from vendor fees. He asked to use Molton’s Field for motorcycle games and mini bike races, to site vendors around Second Street and the farmer’s market area, and to explore primitive camping at a city-owned site near the river. He also asked the council to help coordinate with the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce and school and band contacts for event programming.

On public safety, Roberts said he plans to purchase a $1 million event insurance policy and intends to hire private security and request off-duty police officers for detail work. He said he has reached out to local and regional law-enforcement agencies about additional coverage and expects to coordinate with the police chief and sheriff’s office. Roberts also listed charities that would receive proceeds and outlined plans for music, bike shows, vendors and youth-oriented activities.

Council members expressed support and advised Roberts to coordinate with the police chief, county sheriff and the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce. Staff asked him to supply contact information and permit requests so the city can review logistics and public-safety needs. Roberts said he will follow up with staff and provide documentation, including insurance certificates and proposed site plans.