Douglas Ahlstrin | Support HB127

I am a member of the Selectboard for the Town of Pittsburg, and I strongly support Representative Mike Ouellet's HB 127, to extend the ATV riding season through Columbus Day on the Head Waters. A letter from the board was presented to the Great North Woods ATV Riders Club, unanimously supporting the concept of extending the ATV riding season within the Town of Pittsburg until Columbus Day on 7/10/2024. On 9/12/204 I attended and also spoke on the merits of this proposal at a public meeting held in Pittsburg for the Head Waters Committee. I find it ludicrous and hypocritical that the State of New Hampshire would not treat all municipalities fairly and deny a particular town the opportunity to improve its economy through the tourism industry, which is rapidly becoming the last existing economic driver in our area. Having a consistent set of dates that is the same statewide for ATV riding is a benefit for not only the riders, the clubs, but for all branches of law enforcement also. The Town of Pittsburg should be afforded the equal opportunity to capitalize on the potential to increase the economic impact on the town which it is being deny now. Passage of HB 127 would allow all towns within the State of New Hampshire to be treated equally and to be provided with the same fair and equal chance to expand their economic footprint, while increasing tourism at the same time. I humbly ask that HB 127 be acted upon favorably and passed.