The proposed publicly-funded drag strip dominated Kimball’s news over the past twelve months, overshadowing even the bypass grand opening. That it will now be subject to a special election is right and fitting.

Kimball county voters need to decide the issue.

Few community discussions have proven so divisive. In these pages we have heard pros and cons, dubious promotion and solid figures.

Not surprisingly, few issues have been the source of so much petulance, antipathy and deception.

Perhaps the only constant throughout the year of debate and dispute has been general agreements that the region must do something to inspire economic growth and that a drag strip will not, by itself, turn things around. Many see it more as evidence that people still have faith in Kimball and its future. Yet the proposal carries serious consequences for this community.

If projections by High Point Motor Speedway representatives are correct, some additional income will flow into Kimball—and Sidney, as well. There is little stopping promised crowds from making the short hop on Interstate 80. If the local electorate vote against the project, conversations will continue regarding the community’s economic future. If, on the other hand, the track fails after voter approval, the county could be saddled with costly deadweight.

Increased taxes are bearable and even worthwhile when there is a return. When taxpayer funded projects sit idle, local dollars are removed from circulation.

We will not now try to predict the future. We just appreciate that the drag strip will finally come to a vote, as the matter is important.

After all the debate, the meetings and the borderline insanity, residents can now see the project through or finally put it to rest.