Another thought that has come to my mind recently is the scarcity of professional hockey franchises, and that it really is a privilege to own & operate one (especially in a good market). There are more uber-rich people that would love to own good franchises than franchises available to own. IMO if the current owners don't feel like they can fund a new development themselves, then they have two options: continue raking in very good money for as long as possible in the Dome, or sell the franchise to someone who will develop themselves. Admittedly, the list of people capable and interested in buying a franchise and funding a new development is short, but I am unconcerned by any threat of relocation (Seattle didn't want a brand new shiny franchise, let alone the polished turd from Edmonton).
FWIW I do think the Flames are excellent corporate citizens (despite many detractions of many of the owners and their other operations themselves)
Kind of random musings, but it's further supports my notion that private enterprise should not receive public money unless the public benefits are concrete and legitimate (which to me means a lot more than "will spur further development")
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