A smattering of local officials gathered at the Naswa Resort on Weirs Boulevard Thursday morning to give their thoughts about the upcoming Motorcycle Week, but talk never strayed to anything controversial and mainly accentuated the positive.

Ron Meade, director of New Projects at the New Hampshire International Speedway and also a member of the Governor’s Summit Task Force on Travel and Tourism said he expects "one of the best Bike Weeks we have ever seen."

"This event affects everyone in New Hampshire — this is the state’s single biggest attraction," he said. He explained that in terms of tax dollars, Bike Week annually saves $3 on each person’s tax bill.

"Bikers are far and away the richest single group that visits the state, and that includes the people that visit the speedway," he said. "Bike Week just makes economic sense, aside from the hundreds of jobs it creates.

"We should welcome the bikers and hope they have a darn good time," Meade added.

"We ought to open our arms and share this beautiful area we have," said Paul Lessard, president of the Laconia Motorcycle Rally & Race Week Association Board of Directors.

"I want to make it clear that we appreciate the steps that the business people have taken, and all the things they do to help us," said Laconia Police Chief Bill Baker. "Local law enforcement has expressed our reservations so as not to be hypocrites, and it would’ve been irresponsible to do otherwise."

That said, Baker remarked, "I’m hoping Bike Week will be fun, enjoyable, and safe."

He added, "I understand that the overwhelming majority of motorcycle enthusiasts come here and behave themselves, and a lot of people would agree that there has been an improved atmosphere over the last few years."

"It’s been an interesting past 12 months since the last Bike Week, and there’s been a lot more written about it in the last several weeks," said Executive Director Charlie St. Clair. "I fully expect to have a great week, weather notwithstanding."

St. Clair said he has "full confidence that all public safety and public works officials will do a great job."

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Theresa Pinto explained that this will be her first Bike Week experience, and said she has been "saddened by all the turmoil" surrounding the event.

"I’m still looking forward to a positive event," she said.

Laconia City Manager Eileen Cabanal said this is her third Bike Week, and added that she typically tries to get down to the Weirs at least once a day during the week.

Speaking to any visiting bikers, she said, "I ask that they respect our town, respect each other, and have a good time."

Capt. Ray Burke of the New Hampshire State Police pledged that "people will be treated with respect and the professionalism troopers have."

He joked that this was far from his first Bike Week.

It will also be the first Bike Week for Laconia Fire Chief Ken Erickson. He related that the fire department has been drafting contingency plans with area departments.

"We do expect upwards of 200,000 to 300,000 people," he said. "But Bike Week is one of the things that drew me to this area in the first place, the challenge of this event."

Greg Goddard, general manager of the Gunstock Recreation Area said he is looking forward to the week and has some "exciting events" in the works.

"Gunstock was where Bike Week in Laconia got started, and we’re going to be re-enacting it with our Vintage Weekend," he said. A series of vintage motorcycle races and a swap meet are planned for this weekend, as well as a re-enactment of the Belknap Classic on a one-mile course.

Gilford Police Chief Evans Juris said he hopes the good weather predicted for this weekend will get people smiling. St. Clair noted that the weather is supposed to be good for the next few days.

"If it’s raining they won’t ride too far from their lodging," said St. Clair, who added that most events will go on rain or shine.

Laconia Mayor Mark Fraser was unable to attend the news conference due to business commitments. Meredith Police Chief John Curran was also absent.