If the Flames have put forward such an amazing offer to the city with no response from the city, why don't they go public with it? If they want to turn this into an election issue, let's see what we're voting on.
The stupid thing about making this an election issue is the Flames aren't going to win the popularity contest between spending a bunch of public money on a new arena and not.
Have any candidates for council come out in favour of rolling over and giving the Flames whatever they're asking for?
Here's Bill Smith's policies from his website...
Quote:
SPORTS FACILITIES
There is little doubt that the Saddledome does not meet the needs of Calgarians. I believe a new arena can be constructed with minimal direct cost to Calgary taxpayers. A new arena would support local sports, hospitality and entertainment industries.
McMahon stadium has a rich and long history, but this facility is in need of significant upgrades. I am confident that this stadium could be upgraded with a plan that would see significant improvements paid for through operational efficiencies.
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Here's what he said in response to Nenshi's announcement yesterday...
Quote:
But mayoral candidate Bill Smith said he’s troubled that such a grand vision includes no estimated price tag, only a suggestion that the city could work with the Flames’ owners, other levels of government, and several other partners, including the private sector, to cover any costs.
“It’s indicative of the way this leadership has operated,” said Smith. “They don’t care about dollars. They don’t care about taxpayer money. They’re just going to throw stuff out and hope that they’re going to get re-elected, and I don’t think Calgarians are going for that.
“I’ve heard at the doors, time after time, it’s time for a change, and I believe quite strongly that the current mayor has heard that message as well, and so now he’s grasping at straws.”
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Doesn't sound like a guy who's looking to throw a couple billion dollars around for CalgaryNext.
It's like Nenshi said months ago, he'd love to see anyone run against him on the platform of giving the Flames what they're asking for with CalgaryNext because he's not worried about losing to any candidate who took that stance.
What a bunch of idiots.