Baltimore Withdraws Suit To Seek Pimlico, Plans Talks With Track Owners

Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young announced Wednesday the city is withdrawing the city-led lawsuit that sought to seize Pimlico Race Course and the Preakness Stakes.

The city filed a line of withdrawal seeking dismissal without prejudice. The move followed a discussion between Young and Belinda Stronach, chairman and president of The Stronach Group, which owns the track, the flagship race and the Maryland Jockey Club. City officials said the sides have discussed returning to "good faith negotiations" on how to renovate and/or redevelop the track and other racing facilities in Maryland.

“I am pleased that we have reached this withdrawal agreement and standstill with the Maryland Jockey Club and The Stronach Group to give the parties an opportunity to discuss Pimlico and racing in Maryland,” Young said in a statement. “The City is committed to keeping the Preakness in Baltimore and I look forward to working with the Maryland Jockey Club and The Stronach Group on good faith negotiations toward a positive outcome for the Park Heights community and the City of Baltimore.”

The suit was spearheaded by Young's predecessor, Catherine Pugh. Pugh, the City Council and three residents argued that through neglect, Pimlico's owners were creating a disaster that would allow the flagship race to be moved. Under state law, the Preakness may only be moved from Pimlico as a result of a disaster or emergency. The Stronach Group also owns Laurel Park; and has been open about intentions to consolidate breeding and racing operations there.

The jockey club moved to dismiss the suit in May, arguing that only the state has the right to regulate horse racing.

“We appreciate the withdrawal of the lawsuit and look forward to working with Mayor Young and his representatives, along with the state and other stakeholders,” Stronach said.

State Sen. Jill Carter, whose district includes Pimlico, said she welcomed the dismissal of the lawsuit.

"I think the suit was an interesting choice to begin with, the concept of condemnation, I'm not sure how well thought out that was," Carter said.

Carter believes that while The Stronach Group has expressed its desire to move the Preakness to Laurel Park, talks with the Stronach Group can still keep the race in Baltimore.

She said the dismissal gives city officials the best chance of not only rebuilding Pimlico, but developing the area around it.

Speaking to Brett Hollander, Maryland Jockey Club attorney Alan Rifkin says the city's decision to drop the suit gives both sides the chance to "wipe the slate clean and find a resolution."

Rifkin says both sides have to agree if it is sustainable to operate two race tracks in Maryland.

Like WBAL on Facebook Download the WBAL Smart Phone App ?

Robert Lang contributed to this report.