An unprecedented event to be held at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena will require a unique outline for safety.
Such a plan was not presented to the City Council Public Safety Committee on Monday, and a follow-up meeting is scheduled just days before the gate opens to work out any potential concerns.
"We are big proponents of new events," said Public Safety Chairman Mike Taylor. "Every time time we get a new event it seems to bring a challenge that we are willing to meet. We are hoping that a safety plan is in place and look forward to its approval contingent that all safety conditions are met for everyone involved."
Taylor, D-Ward 3, along with Deputy Fire Chief Chet Harvey, reported to the full council that the arena's event coordinator, Matt Hanson, did not have sufficient details in response to the committee's inquiries.
At the meeting, Hanson was able to contact the operators of Xtreme International Ice Racing, who are already in residence this week, and schedule a follow-up conference at the request of Harvey.
"Some of these issues might evaporate just by finding out what they are doing," Harvey said. He added that questions needing answers included which type of fuel will be used and how it will be stored, as well as confirmation about the type of air monitoring system used in the arena. He said it is likely that the racing league operators have more details about safety since they are a touring performance. In February, the league hosted events in Elmira, N.Y. and Ontario, Can. as well as in other regions.
"If the building codes (are met) and the public safety (committee) agrees that all the concerns are addressed, then it is approved," Harvey said.
Xtreme International Ice Racing features competitions of motorcycles and four-wheeled ATVs, whose drivers hail from throughout the world. These vehicles have more than 2,000 metal studs added to the tires and lack normal braking mechanisms.
Taylor said most organizers comprising the annual slate of special events submit their applications well in advance of the event.
"For most events, there isn't any problem getting the necessary departments to sign off - including police, fire, BPU and Parks and Recreation," said Taylor. "But it does seems that every time a new event does come to Jamestown there is a delay, and there does seem to be requirements and things that might get overlooked by whoever is putting on the event."
He added: "In most cases, we go with the recommendation of our department heads."