PRESS RELEASE

2009 Hollister Motorcycle Rally Cancelled

HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – February 3, 2009 – The Hollister City Council voted to cancel the 2009 Hollister Motorcycle Rally, citing concerns over the potential cost to the City's already struggling general fund. 

The decision to cancel the rally came after months of careful consideration. Since 1997, the Hollister Motorcycle Rally has been an annual event.  Spiraling expenses caused a review of the feasibility of continuing the rally. Starting in 2004, the City had to begin paying increased costs for assistance from state law enforcement agencies. Due to the downturn in the state budget, these agencies could no longer provide services without reimbursement. In addition, adjustments were made to ensure that contracts with officers from outside agencies conformed to state law. Of course, as attendance at the rally increased over the years, additional law enforcement personnel were necessary to ensure the safety of rally attendees and the residents of Hollister. 

In addition to law enforcement expenses, the City incurs costs associated with preparing for the event, as well as public works and equipment expenses. Finally, there are other public safety expenses, such as supplemental firefighter/paramedic staffing. 

These expenses exceeded reimbursement by over $100,000. This left the City with a general fund expense at a time the City is facing severe cutbacks and spending down its general fund reserve. Facing the possibility of even greater expenses and further reduction of its general fund, the City Council voted to cancel the 2009 Hollister Motorcycle Rally. 

More information will be available in the coming weeks on the City's website, www.hollister.ca.gov.

Approved by:  Clint Quilter, City Manager

Please visit www.hollistermotorcyclerally.com for more information.