Here's a different perspective on all of this. I know, surprise, surprise.
What is lost in all of this vitriol is the acknowledgement that this boils down to the Flames vision versus Nenshi's vision. That's really what this is all about, and what Nenshi's little announcement was all about. This is about who has the right to guide the development of the future Calgary entertainment district. Whose legacy is this going to be? Is it going to be the Flames ownership group, or is it going to be Nenshi's?
The Flames put forward a comprehensive plan to address the redevelopment of the West Villiage, which would include a new arena, a new fieldhouse/football stadium, a new entertainment district, and then riverfront condominium development. This is where the Flames ownership interest likely was mostly focused, getting involved in the development aspects here and making their money in the real estate. Like it or not, it was a comprehensive plan that addressed the overarching needs of CSEC. There were more than enough pimples on this face, but it was a point for negotiation.
Conversely, Nenshi's vision was different. He wants to be remembered for the East Village and the cleanup of Victoria Park. He has proposed an equally flawed plan that really doesn't make much sense in the bigger picture. I really don't see a plan here, other than shoe-horning an arena in a spot that will keep the Stampede Board happy, with land swaps, and fill in space in the East Village. Seriously, what is a business incubator doing in the heart of the supposed "entertainment district? And what entertainment district zig-zags its way through downtown, including crossing the train track right of way? You want to talk about a flawed design? This is it. Compare this to some of the latest and best designs around world. How can anyone suggest this was a serious plan?
Nenshi said it himself. "The arena is not the issue, the issue is East downtown, the issue is creating a cultural and entertainment district in East downtown, which requires many many ingredients and many many pieces." But many of those pieces don't fit, nor are really close to each other. This was not a good plan either, and I suspect Nenshi knew that.
So while the Flames play the bad guy here, suggesting the City was not being responsive in a timely manner, I think the out-going Mayor can speak for himself. "We're in no rush, the issue here is to get this exactly right for Calgarians," said Nenshi. No, I think the issue here is Nenshi delivering on his vision and ensuring his political legacy. This is not about doing right by those have been and continue to invest in Calgary, this is clear politicking and a desire to establish a legacy.