[Archie Teck]

Originally Posted by Migs

How do you know it won't be viable or sustainable?

Common sense and a little reasoning bear this out.

I'd agree to an arrangement that tests your theory that the stadium will be profitable. How about we agree that no public funds be used, and if some person or company wants to build it and take all the profits, let them. See if there are any takers.

Originally Posted by Migs

Is it just your opinion or do you know more than those who have built successful and viable downtown stadiums throughout North America?

Successful and viable stadiums like BC Place, Olympic Stadium and the Skydome?

Originally Posted by Migs

There could still be businesses (ie stores, hotels and restaurants) and other entertainments projects (ie movie theatre, waterpark) included in the project. Why does it have to be one or the other?

If what you want is stores, hotels, movie theaters and waterparks, why not build those directly then, instead of building a monolith and hoping these other things spring up in the tiny slivers of available land that would surround it.

I would point out there is no catalyst whatsoever for those sorts of things to spring up just because of a big stadium. There IS however a strong case to be made that if we were to drastically increase residency of the area, those things you want WILL come into being.

Originally Posted by Migs

its already proven throughout many major cities in North America that downtown stadiums are good for moral, good for the economy,

Can you cite some success stories that use real financials? Not just feel-good numbers like economic impact that can't really be measured.

Originally Posted by Migs

But one must remember the Riders are only one reason why this project will go ahead, all stated in the study released last week.

It's worth noting that even though the riders would be the premiere tenant, they have a history of being unable to pay even basic, minimal rent. And that's for the current aged and thrifty facilities. If they struggle to afford their modest rent now, do they have any chance of paying anywhere close to fair value for a luxury 350 million facility?

Originally Posted by Migs

That said, the wheels are turning and the momentum is looking as though this stadium will get done. We have a VERY popular Premier and an even more Popular mayor both on board in getting this done. Also it sounds like there are upwards of 3 major companies already interested in becoming partners on this fantastic project for our city and Province.

I'm pleased to see the sensible minority are speaking up and pointing out the folly of this concept. Perhaps we will come to our senses in time to prevent a big mistake.