I'm actually onside with Nenshi for once. If demand for a multi-purpose arena that would attract big name performers is so high, the business case would be strong without subsidies. The City already faces a crippling debt load. The last thing it can afford is corporate welfare. If anything, the City should be asking for a contribution from the arena developer to offset infrastructure costs.
If the City is somehow duped into contributing, it should gain a proportional ownership stake in the facility. Given that billionaires tend to be skilled negotiators, the City will likely get screwed along the lines of Edmonton vs. Katz.
West Village and the inner city in general is the worst place to build an oppressive monstrosity like an arena that will be a dead zone most of the time. Calgary is not like other cities. It doesn't have massive inner city tracts of former industrial land that face uncertain redevelopment prospects (ex. port district in Seattle, rail yards in Denver). The Stampede Grounds are enough of an eyesore. Fire Park or the Crossroads market area would be far better suited.
Last edited by Doug; Nov 26, 2014 at 5:57 AM.
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