Arena Saga Continues

In the never ending debate regarding the arena, we find out today that yet another option is on the table.   We have a two publicly owned and a private partnership proposal.   To me, the choice is simple enough.  

In Saturday’s Windsor Star, it was reported that the three options include the Ice Track at a cost of $48.5 million to taxpayers (which includes an additional 2 ice pads in the east end); the go-it-alone option of about $70 million to taxpayers (which strangely increased from $55 million overnight), and the Callavino arena which comes in at $54.7 million from taxpayers.

Gord Henderson writes that the white elephant in this saga is Casino Windsor.   Personally, the negotiated no-competition clause for the construction of a larger convention center at the Casino failed local ratepayers and restricted economic development in the West End and downtown in favour of the Casino.   Now, it is without argument that the Casino has benefited thousands with good paying jobs.   But the question that remains is who operates this city?   City council or the Casino?  

Essentially, Casino Windsor has been given a monopoly on entertainment.   Was this another trick for current city council to soak Ontario taxpayers for additional money for another mega project , with no intention of honouring said agreement in the long term?   I suppose only time will tell.

I’m opposed to taxpayers footing the bill for an arena.  The better of the three,  is the Ice Track – with some modifications to the proposed arrangement.   Under the current proposition, the Ice-Track would assume all costs and liabilities.   Rather than forwarding $15 million in cash the city does not have,  development and tax incentives in exchange for a profit sharing agreement should be considered.

Proponents of the publicly financed arena sound the alarm that ice time for community groups will cost more.  A quick google regarding this issue and one will find that public or private, ice time costs are similar.

Given current city council’s track record on managing and negotiating inefficiently, the $1.5 million cost overruns on the bus terminal that was to be built LAST year for one, the new social services building 400 City Hall Square for two, the Canderal arrangement for three, I fear that any publicly owned institution under this administration will end up costing taxpayers a lot more than they are being sold – particularly on the eve of an election.

When done correctly, Public-Private Partnerships allow the city to free up financial resources for essential services – such as police, fire, infrastructure or social services.   Risk elements need to be properly assessed and understood so as to determine whether proposals represent good value for the money.   Just as important, it builds successful relationships with entrepreneurs and sends a clear message that Windsor is open for business. 

Now we are told we can expect a decision on October 4 ^th .   That in of itself should raise alarm bells. The city is going to make a decision AFTER nominations and before new council is elected.   This is of complete disrespect for taxpayers.   This item should be one of many up for debate, and evaluation for the voters to decide.    Proceeding with this,  council snubs the democratic process and disrespects taxpayers.