Quote:
Originally Posted by powderjunkie
The biggest thing for me with a new arena is that it isn't actually creating anything NEW - it's simply a replacement for what we already have.
Many people disagree, but I'd rather live out the full lifecycle of the Saddledome (another 10-15 yrs IMO) and use the money for projects that are actually NEW. In the meantime, implement a ticket tax to build a small kitty that can help close the negotiating gap between the parties.
The Saddledome is a perfectly capable, fully loaded 2004 Honda Odyssey without any pending maintenance needs beyond oil changes (we just replaced the tires, brakes, and timing belt after the flood). It's fully paid off and costs next to nothing to operate.
We want to trade it in for brand new F350. Insurance costs a lot more (ticket prices), gas costs a bit more (concessions). The vehicle seats fewer people, but it does let us go further off-road 2-3 times year when we go camping (so-called big concerts skipping us for Edmonton). Don't get me wrong, there are some great new features like a better stereo system and wireless phone charger, but there will also be some unanticipated drawbacks (maybe harder to park, etc. - people in the E=NG thread have talked about how their new building feels 'soul-less')
We've always known we would need a new car eventually, just as whatever new one we get will need replacement eventually, too. I've just never been one to trade in the essentially 'free' years of a depreciating asset (with minor inconveniences compared to new versions) to take on a whole bunch more debt.
There are far more pressing things in this city to be replaced or created than the arena.
|
10-15 years would probably stretch the arena's life well beyond what the NHL and the Flames' owners would be comfortable with.
But if you are OK with the risk they could move the team, then it's a valid opinion. And I'm not saying that to be hyperbolic - indeed it is about where folks want money spent. But with that has to come some awareness of the ramifications of that.