Good discussion. Liked the comments from Womius, Muta and TOFan in particular.
CMLC does do a good job (also speaking from personal experience) and they have done a good job with increasing the level of architecture in the City.
There are talented firms in the City; whether any of them could have done the Central Library, for example, is a bit of a question - though it is clear Dialog did a tremendous job as the local firm on that project.
Typically, there is a reason why firms become 'starchitects' in the first place - they are good at what they do. That includes understanding how to navigate the RFP and interview process, not only the design aspect of things.
Not sure what will happen with the next arena project, but I would prefer to have someone like CMLC on board, especially if public monies are involved, to ensure that Calgarians get the most out of their dollars.
Hopefully, there will be another path forward for the arena sooner rather than later.
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