American Businessman Angers Neighbors by Building His Son a Race Track (3 Photos + 1 Video)

Charles Siperko noted that the track cost more than $100,000. It is on private property, fenced with trees and shrubs to keep noise to a minimum, but neighbors are still upset.





Charles Siperko, CEO of KCS Roofing, of Maryland, is facing a backlash from neighbors after he began building a go-kart practice track on his property in Highland, Howard County, to support his 11-year-old son's passion for motorsports.

The entrepreneur claims that he built the track (0.5 miles) with pure intentions, since the boy aspires to a racing career, and long trips to another city for training are too burdensome for the family.

"My son breathes motorsports - it's not just a hobby, it's his passion. We just want to give him the opportunity to train close to home, and not in another state," says Siperko.



The American noted that the project itself cost more than $100,000 and is located on private property, fenced with trees and bushes to keep noise to a minimum. However, the construction of the track caused a storm of protests from neighbors.

"We live in a quiet area and this project is disruptive to our peace. The site with the track spoils the view, and the noise and pollution from the track could harm not only the environment but also our homes," said one resident, who wished to remain anonymous.

The neighbors' opposition also raised concerns that microplastics from the tires and pollutants would end up in waterways and destroy the local ecosystem.

Siperko admits he was unaware of the need for a permit and made the mistake of trusting an asphalt company that claimed a license was not required. During the proceedings, the businessman and his family applied for a conditional permit to use the site as a sports facility and enlisted the help of a land attorney.

"I didn't know that a private track on my property would require a permit. I was naive and stupid to believe that, and now I have to fight for my son's future," he added.



The lack of an environmental review also created problems. The family said they had an expert from the state Department of Environmental Protection confirm that there were no wetlands on the property. However, concerned neighbors filed complaints with local authorities. In response, the man noted that his track was built in full compliance with noise regulations, and that the electric go-karts would be used during strictly designated hours.

Amid the controversy, Siperko posted a petition on Change.org, hoping for public support.

"We have faced an inadequate reaction from some local residents who do not want to see our track, although we have done everything possible to ensure that it does not disturb anyone. This track is my son's dream, and I will not allow it to be destroyed. We need public understanding and support to preserve his desire to become a professional racer," he wrote in the petition.2