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Wilkes County green-lights application to Major Events Fund to support North Wilkesboro race
Summary
County commissioners approved a contract allowing Wilkes County to apply for and, if awarded, pass through Major Events Fund revenue to North Wilkesboro Speedway to support a July points race. Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway representatives said the race is pacing to sell out.
Representatives from North Wilkesboro Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway asked the Wilkes County Board of Commissioners for approval to have the county apply for funds from the state Major Events, Games and Attractions Fund, created in part from sports gaming revenue. The county-approved contract would make Wilkes County the pass-through applicant if the Department of Commerce awards a grant.
Marcus Smith’s team (represented by Greg Walter and Graig Hoffman at the meeting) told commissioners the July points race is tracking ahead of last year’s sellout. Vice Chairman Evan Handy clarified for the public that the fund is supported by proceeds from legalized sports gaming in North Carolina and is intended to offset promoter costs to attract major events. Commissioner Shirley Randleman moved to approve the contract; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Bill Sexton and approved unanimously. If awarded, the county will receive grant funds and pass them to the Speedway under a subsequent grant agreement with the Department of Commerce.
