Thursday, March 4, 2010
my thoughts
I would like to start by saying I am all in agreement with this new arena being built, this project will help the city grow. But one thing is bugging me, if we as tax payers have to pay for such a large bill, what will we get out of this? For one I would like to see cheaper ticket prices, the majority of people in Edmonton can’t always afford to go see hockey games, even with these tuff economic times the price per tickets has not really decreased. I would also like to see this arena used for not just hockey, lacrosse, and concerts, but many other things.
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The arena will get used for more than just hockey. Last year Rexall Place ranked 23 in the entire world, and was one concert behind the Air Canada Center in Toronto, in the race to be Canada's busiest arena (http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/arena/Rexall+Place+third+race+Canada+busiest+arena/2482474/story.html).
ReplyDeleteA newer arena, with more seating and amenities, will not drop that number lower, but instead probably raise it even higher. So the argument would be that taxpayers will get many more world class shows and events coming to the city.
The thing is, is if the city funds the arena, why should Mr. Katz own it? Right now the Oilers are renters, and money from non-Oiler events such as concerts goes to Northlands, a community organization. If tax money builds this thing, would that revenue stream go back to the city, or into the pocket of Mr. Katz?
I don't currently live in Edmonton, so on one hand it's very easy for me to say build it. It wouldn't be my tax money, unless provincial or federal dollars are used. But before the city invests a dime, I think they need to make sure they are getting value. And you certainly need to take into account the value of civic pride, which you cannot put a dollar value to very easily.