After a flyer was posted around Hollister encouraging supporters
of a motorcycle rally to share their thoughts with elected
officials, the Hollister City Council chambers were packed on
Monday with people asking for the return of the event.
After a flyer was posted around Hollister encouraging supporters of a motorcycle rally to share their thoughts with elected officials, the Hollister City Council chambers were packed Monday with people asking for the return of the event.
Though the item was not on the agenda, a number of speakers used their allotted three minutes during the public comment period to address the issue.
Matt Hart, the owner of Jerry’s Restaurant, said that during the rally his business tripled and he was able to hire additional employees.
“I hope what’s not lost on people around the city is the important financial benefit of the rally,” he said.
The last city-sponsored motorcycle rally was held in 2008. The city discontinued its involvement in the event last year after law enforcement costs became prohibitive, according to officials.
Charisse Tyson, the owner of Johnny’s Bar and Grill in downtown Hollister, said the community “really wants this rally.”
“All nonprofits lose so much money when we don’t have a rally,” she said. “It’s not just about three days” when the rally is held. “People want to come here all year. The cry is out there. Eighty-two to 85 percent of your constituents want the rally – let’s find a way to make it work.”
Joe Love, who said he moved to Hollister because of the rally, said he and others were intimidated by the presence of law enforcement during the annual event. He also questioned how the city could not make money from such a well-attended event.
“You get 100,000 people here and don’t make money?” he said.
