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Local businesses, residents weigh benefits and costs of proposed Elkhorn recreation boost
Summary
Supporters said more riders would boost lodging and restaurants in Sumpter; some year‑round residents worry about traffic, noise and loss of quiet character if visitation rises significantly.
Supporters argued that a permanent multiple‑use designation and coordinated events would bring more visitors and revenues to Sumpter businesses. One council member and several residents noted the potential for increased lodging and TLT (transient lodging tax) revenues if the area draws regional riders.
Other residents said they moved to the area for its quiet, and several asked that the council solicit broader community feedback before endorsing the plan. "There are people that came to this town... They came because it was quiet and out of the way, and they do not want this to turn into another McCall," one resident said. Organizers acknowledged both economic benefits and quality‑of‑life concerns and proposed canvassing businesses and circulating a formal support sheet in town.
The meeting ended with organizers collecting sign‑in sheets and an informal show of hands; a majority of attendees raised their hands in favor of pursuing letters of support, but the council said it would need wider community input before taking formal action.
