Race Organizers May Face Fee in Charleston

Race organizers could soon have to pay fees to the city of Charleston for holding their event within city limits.

The Charleston Gazette reports the city’s parks and recreation committee passed a bill outlining rules for the fees last night.

Several racing groups and charity organizations have spoken out against the bill, which calls for fees that range from 500 to a thousand dollars for 5 and 10K racecourses. The bill still needs the approval of city council.

The idea behind the bill is to help the city recoup costs associated with the races, but nonprofit organizations could receive a 50 percent discount on their fees if they list the City of Charleston as an event sponsor.

Fees for established courses are expected to be published by October 1st.