To the Editor:
As a planner that has worked in the field of recreation for 25 years, I’ve worked with most recreational activities and their advocates. Every user group tries to progress their priorities with passion and commitment.

I’ve worked with individual user groups separately for specific proposals as well as multiple groups within a master-planning process that each want something different. Additionally, I’ve been an actual advocate for a variety of recreational activities throughout my life so I can understand that passion from the advocacy side as well.

Recently, I unfortunately witnessed the most hate-filled, vile, disrespectful comments from a recreational user group that I’ve ever seen. These comments were stated during a “debate” on Facebook concerning the proposed Berne ATV law. 

I’ve observed many similar debates over the decades to get a better understanding of the specific recreational proposal and what inspires both sides. Generally, there is some level of civility from both sides despite seeing clear passion or opposition.

The Facebook postings and their hate-filled, disrespectful nature is a clear litmus test for how the group will respect the proposed law. Any slim hope that I had that people would be good advocates for their passion, driving ATVs, was totally lost after viewing those comments.

There will be no respect for the proposed law by the majority of people. The few active advocates (individuals, clubs and motorsport shops) that are involved in this will not be able to control the majority either —  this is a clear red flag to any professional planner and should be for anyone else that viewed the comments.

Mark Hohengasser

Berne