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Potter County Commissioners unanimously back regional ATV-trail partnership
Summary
Potter County Commissioners voted unanimously July 24 to support the Northcentral Regional ATV Trail (NRAT) Council of Governments, endorsing regional coordination for an ATV trail system while noting the resolution does not create a county financial commitment.
Potter County Commissioners on July 24 voted unanimously to adopt a resolution supporting the formation of a Northcentral Regional ATV Trail (NRAT) Council of Governments to coordinate a regional ATV trail network.
Will Hunt, Potter County Planning/GIS/Community Development Director, presented the resolution and told commissioners that ATV tourism has become “a significant driver of economic activity in Potter County.” Hunt said visitors averaged nine trips per year during the 2022–2023 season, with typical visits lasting about three nights, and that permit sales generated roughly $430,000 that season. He added that local businesses have reported that “up to 30%” of their income is attributable to ATV visitors.
Hunt said organized trail systems like NRAT help reduce riding on private property, limit reckless behavior and encourage adherence to trail rules. He told the board that all municipalities in the start-up would be involved but that only dues-paying members would have a vote; he said specific dollar amounts for membership fees will be set once county solicitors and partners complete their work. "Passing the resolution today only agrees to move forward and does not represent a financial commitment," Hunt said.
Commissioner Paul Heimel moved to approve Resolution 6; Commissioner Robert Rossman seconded. The motion passed with Heimel, Rossman and Commissioner Nancy Grupp voting yes.
The resolution signals Potter County's intent to participate alongside neighboring counties, municipalities and regional partners in planning and coordinating an ATV trail system. The county will not be required to provide funding at this stage; further decisions about dues or capital investments would come later after legal and fiscal details are identified.
Next steps noted in the meeting included solicitor review of membership fee structure and ongoing coordination with regional partners. Commissioner Rossman said he has scheduled a tour of the trail system with commissioners from other counties to showcase the project's progress.
