downtown arena will never be built as long as public keep complaining about tax and all. if Edmonton Oilers ever move to the town because of lack of getting new arena, so be it, then public will learn the hard way for lack of support.
Darlene - 14 years ago
If I remember correctly, this is a business that Katz wanted to begin and the tax payers would not be billed for it. Now he wants to invest only 20% of the present quoted price. If he wants to start another new business he can invest in it without expecting the City of Edmonton to do so as well. Besides, I'm not aware of the tax payers not being billed extra from the original price quoted by the contractor(s).
Dawne - 14 years ago
I live on a limited medical disability income. I can't afford any extra's and the levels of government don't give cost of living increases to us. Why would I support Katz on this issue. There is no way funding from any level of gov't should go to this venture.
We have homeless which only a part of this money would help to get them off the street and trained so they can have jobs. We have poor who could use the money for the same thing.
Our healthcare got a little boost in the budget but that was only to keep things at last years level - not for any improvement to health care.
School testings have shown that dropping education levels are happening in Alberta - more money on schools and education would help reverse that trend.
As someone else said - the money could be used for snow removal in the winter - and for watering trees and other greenery during the drought times we have every year.
The money could be used to help expand the LRT into all areas of the city which would cut down on the number of buses needed to run into the downtown core and cut down on pollution.
The money could be used to fix roads and sidewalks. I use a walker, and no matter what time of year, it is hard to get around in the area I live in. Also, on the south side of the city (where I happen to live) there are lots of roads that have no sidewalks! Which means I have to walk on the road facing traffic - and I have been almost hit so many times because some drivers feel I shouldn't be on the road. But the question is - how do I get around then? I can't push my walker through the grass where sidewalks should be. If you think that's easy - you should try it. And as for drivers who honk at me or curse at me because I'm on the road - I wish they would show respect and realize - no sidewalk means the only option is to walk on the road.
I agree about the cost as well. $ 400 million is a naive projection and I have to wonder why the figure was so low balled! I would say we're looking at $ 1.5 billion or more.
Another point to consider is - with some events from Capital Ex being held in Rexall Place and the rest of the Northlands Grounds - what happens if a new arena is built downtown? You will have increased traffic flow to the downtown core and back out to Northlands. Which could lead to so many more problems - including violence - as there is more opportunity for criminals to attack the innocent.
I say that any new arena should be build on the Northlands Grounds! Keep it all together in one place. Why split it up and have people having to travel all over the place for events. As well, there is far less available parking in the downtown core. We could build a parkade at Northlands to help with the parking problems there.
I sincerely hope that City Council doesn't support this idea in the least. Anyone who does will not get my vote in the municipal elections which will be held in October this year. And that's something else the Mayor and Council need to remember. There jobs are up this October. If they want to keep it they better listen to the voters! In fact, even though Mayor Mandel is against it, I say this should go to a vote on the ballot. We should have a say in this amount of money being spent.
I have lots more to say - but I will wait and see what others have to say! *laughs*
Dawne
Ned - 14 years ago
Let me see if I've got this right, Edmonton builds and maintains the arena, the Oilers move in, and play for free, and Katz gets every penny of revenue that is generated by any event held there? What could be more fair!
Hey, does any one out there want to build me an apartment building? I promise to only take HALF the revenue.
I think Mr. Katz has been out in the sun too long.
Sandy - 14 years ago
I'm astonished that the City of Edmonton is so eager to subsidize a billionaire's newest venture. Edmonton's transit system is deplorable; improving it would be a much better use of taxpayer dollars.
Oilers players have such high salaries because municipalities pay for their arenas - it's basic sports economics.
As to building an arena because the city spent an extravagant amount of money on a hideous new art gallery - all the more reason not to do it...
Marshall Yaseyko - 14 years ago
At 5% interest, the city would have to pay $20,000,000.00 per year, only for the interest. How would they generate this much income only through local taxation?
J.P Michaels - 14 years ago
I could see the City paying for the Arena, if the Oilers would be owned by the City, but since they are owned by the Katz Group, they should pay for the Arena. If there is a need for the other Buildings (Offices, Condos etc). I guess the market will decide if this is needed.
The City however should consider to invest some Money into the project with Tax Credits as well as the surrounding Infrastructure (LRT, Buses etc).
headshaker - 14 years ago
Let's be realistic... the arena that both Northlands and the Katz Group want will NOT cost $400 million all-in!
Those (whoever that will be) who will be successful in securing a new facility will want a larger and more sophisticated facility. The infrastructure for water, power and sewage in the downtown area would need a compete overhaul to meet the capacity of 100+ toilets flushing simultaneously during intermission; 100 sinks+ washing hands in bathrooms; more electricity to power bigger jumbo screens; bigger kitchens; bigger boilers to keep the heat and hot water... and so on. That would likely be at the expense of taxpayers and those who pay utility bills. As well, an entire entertainment district would only add to the load of the system. If we are taking bets on cost over run and extra expense for the whole arena and supporting property (not including the hotel and casino)… I want to place my wager on $1.2 billion once you add the direct and indirect costs.
With respect to the management of the facility- all parties would need to get together to make the facility self sustaining. Northlands is haemorrhaging money and the Oilers need to pay their way. One side doesn't have an idea of what the other is doing or how they pay for it! At this time, if you asked anyone at the table what the actual cost of doing business is, you would likely have a lengthy period of uncomfortable silence. As managing a major arena has a mutual benefit to everyone, a long term business relationship with greater transparency is going to be key. As well, a Sustainability Account should be set up where a percentage of all ticket sales would go into an account so when we need to revisit renovations/new facility; the money is there! Not only would the Oilers, Live Nation, AEG and all other companies who use the building help to pay to keep it going but so would those who actually do use it.
The other question is: what to do with the existing building? It is still in great shape but does need a visit from "Arena Makeover". It would be an ideal 10,000+ concert /theatre hall. This would be a great phase 2 to any project. Turning over an arena adds a great deal of production costs and may not add value for most artistic-based concerts. This could control ticket prices and provide a much better experience for great musical and theatrical productions. There would be better sightlines and would not smell like a beer-soaked urinal like Rexall Place currently does.
I could go on but this only holds 4000 words Good luck to all!
fedup - 14 years ago
A develper (KATZ) bought some land downtown, he has a plan for this land. Now as a developer of this land, he applies to city hall for a building permit to build what he would like to. If he is sucsessful, he can build the building of his desire, and charge admission, or rent the way he sees fit. Then he can make his next billion $$$. Also city hall can have him pay his fair share of taxes right from the get go, and not be giving a BILLIONAIRE (KATZ) any tax concssions like our city employees did for another multi millionaire developer . This is how the city can pay for LRT, snow removal, pothole repairs, more police, and hockey arenas for our children who might go on to work for katz and help him win a stanley cup. I am watching how our employees,( the mayor, and alderpeople) will be handling this. In case they do the wrong thing, my wife and myself are already looking at moving out of this city just as soon as we can. Our tax statement we just got a few weeks ago, has us paying 354 more $$$ this year. I hate to see what the taxes will be if we have to pay for all that I mentioned above plus a billionaire's new vision for Edmonton
Albert Holler - 14 years ago
I look at it this way. Who builds arenas in small communities? The community not the private sector. This beautiful complex should be built by Edmonton and surrounding communities of Edmonton and private investors. Over the long run the city will get back there money two fold. It's time for a new home for the Oilers. Its needed badly. Lets do it and do it right.
troy - 14 years ago
Please dont forget 85 million on a arts barn what a waste of tax payers money.Mayor wants expo for 2 billon dollars,council hasno problem jacking taxes up every year but cannot spend money on roads and fixing existing facilitys because there is no glory in that DO NOT ALLOW COUNCIL TO MAKE THE VOTE THIS SHOULD BE A REFERENDUM VOTE ITS OUR MONEY,KATZ GETS RICHER AND RICHER AND THE TAX PAYER GETS THE SHAFT
Geoffrey - 14 years ago
One fact that constantly gets over-looked is that the existing arena/concert venue is going on 40 years old. The City of Edmonton will require a new venue within 5 to 10 years if we want to keep getting concerts, have a hockey team at the NHL level, and be a notable city in North America.
Cindy - 14 years ago
If the City could use tax dollars to build an Art Gallery that less than 10% of the population will ever see, why not help support our hockey team that brings in millions for the City.
Michelle - 14 years ago
If Katz wants ANY return on his investments, & wants the City of Edmonton to build the arena, the City should have a right to at least 51% of the profits--according to his plan to have the City borrow $400 million to build just the arena. I do NOT believe Katz has any right to expect all the gate receipts for ANY event if he expects the taxpayers of this city to contribute ANY money!
Terry - 14 years ago
The tax dollars are those that will be generated by taxing the arena district and nothing else. The city of Calgary has done the borrow moneya nd use the taxes from that development to pay for the debt.
I can understand why Katz has changed his mind in putting 100,000,0000 in the arena. First. Unless he's given complete control then why do that. Whjy pay 1/4 of the total cost and own the prime tentant if he's not going to have who he wants running the place.
Second. The rent of the lease and the taxes that he would have to pay on top of the 100,000,000 would be crazy. Mr. Katz dind't get his wealth by being stupid. Try calculating 1000,000,000 x potential rent + taxes =?????
Marg - 14 years ago
We are seniors & cannot afford tickets to oilers games and there is no way people should pay something that he thought up it is his idea and so he should pay with all his money and quit trying to think up ideas for others to pay.... so I don't intend to be paying for his dream I can't afford alot for my own dreams... so take your ideas to another city or province.
Donovan - 14 years ago
I myself love the Oilers and am sorry to hear that some folks would rather see them go. I would gladly donate to keep the Oliers here and in a new rink downtown generating new revenues and a modern atmosphere in our core.
I am sure that given the opportunity, a handful of other cities would gladly take on the costs for an NHL team to have them.
jake - 14 years ago
Did everyone pick up the new "buzz" words "it's complicated' (katz-radio interview, Lyle Best, businessman wants arena downtown)?
Yep, and they are complicating it by squirming around ideas to get municipal funds.
Pssh! R U kinding me? I think that's the most selffish crap I ever heard! We just had a recession, plus we pay enough as is with Taxes. HOW ABOUT TAKING THAT KIND OF CASH AND BUILD A BETTER TRANSIT SYSTEM!!! Build heated shelters FOR WHEN IT's "-30" OUTSIDE! OR have more busses running, oh oh all the idea's I have if I had that kind of money.(KATZ) LISTEN 2 THE PEOPLE!!!!
Judy - 14 years ago
NO NO NO why should taxpayers be told to foot the bill. If taxpayers want to purchaser anything for themselves they need to get the $s first. Why does government always put the cart before the horse. The hockey arena was supposedly purchased as an investment. If HE wants a new arena let him make arrangements a purchase it himself, NOT AT TAXPAYERS EXPENSE!!!
Kenneth - 14 years ago
We believe that if Katz wants a new arena that he should pay for the whole thing except of course for any road improvements because of the new arena and adjoining buildings.
Geoffrey - 14 years ago
Yes the city should build the arena and have Northlands run that portion of the development; I would even support 500 to 600 million dollars of tax payer’s money being spent on something that would possibly help our cities image. The fact that you have someone wanting to invest $100 million into Edmonton’s downtown is a miracle in its own. Or we could have better snow removal?
Joe - 14 years ago
If Mr. Katz wants to build a new arena downtown, I say he should go for it. To ask for the city to fork over 3/4 of the bill to construct it is absolutely ridiculous. If Mr. Katz sees large returns for development around the arena and from the arena then he should pitch this to other businesses and organizations that can benefit from this kind of investment and build the arena with privately funded participants. It's bad enough that it will cost a fortune for the average Edmontonian to go and watch a game, buy beer, pay for parking and to use our tax dollars on top of that is just over the top. If he can't get enough from private investment then obviously they don't see profitable returns and therefor would also be a bad idea for the city to invest in. Besides 300 million would plow a lot of roads, build homeless shelters, public recreation facilities, libraries... This is where the city should be looking to be putting our tax dollars to use.
john - 14 years ago
No I will not pay my tax dollars for a New Arena That The OILERS HAVE NOT EARNED..... They cant get into the Playoffs, They Dont Deserve A New Rink... When They Win At Least One Cup, Then MAYBE I'll Be On Board
bunch of whiners - 14 years ago
I'mve never seen such a bunch of whiners. Relative to a provincial/civic budget its a very small percentage. I'm sure all you negative people believe that the city should only fund what YOUR directly interested in. How come we didn't see this kind of negativity for the art gallery. A new arena will be used 100 times more than an art gallery, but I didn't see people complain then. What wrong with having nice things in a city. Go to any major city in North American and government assistance is provided to major projects in some form or another.
Jealousy will get you nowhere.
Max - 14 years ago
Downtown traffic is too conjested as it is, why add to the problem with another eyesore to mirror the hideous Art Gallery? Let's learn from other cities like Ottawa who's downtown arena failed miserably and was moved ASAP.
Darrell t - 14 years ago
the city should pay , they didnt mind paying 80 million for a museum, im sure the arena will be used by more people and generate more revenue than that shiny peice of steel of a museum. If the city is so proud of the oilers and want them to stay put here is there chance to step up to the plate. Enough of the talk, do something.
Jennifer - 14 years ago
So he (Katz), proposed the building HE wants, but wants the taxpayers (us) to pay for it, and then he (Katz) wants ALL the revenue from it? I say - take a hike? There are too many other projects on the table as it is, and my taxes climb every year and still don't cover those things. Katz should go back to the drawing board - and that includes rethinking the Oilers.
chad - 14 years ago
It is ridiculous to even think about building a rink in our downtown core. We already have enough traffic problems downtown without the rink. Our downtown is not designed to handle the type of traffic this project will create. Also we have other things that need to be fixed first like the roads and show removal. A new coliseum does no good when you can't drive to it.
To quote long-running TV program "The Simpsons", building an arena such as this amounts to "...using public money to build a playground for the rich and powerful...".
Moira - 14 years ago
Absolutely no taxpayer dollars. The argument that we'll get the money back in taxes carries no weight. If the arena is built the city will get the taxes no matter who pays now. Let Katz and the Oilers foot the bill. Most of us can't afford to go to the arena now and I don't think a new one will be any cheaper! Moira G.
I think it should be half half with the Gov getting the tax rev.
joe - 14 years ago
No chance in H*** that the City of Edmonton and it's tax payers should have to fit the bill for this project. If council does vote for this deal they should all hand in their resignations. Many roads, sidewalks, homeless, and other things need our tax dollars rather than some billionaire who can not even come forward and tell us all why he needs our money. Mr. Katz, if it is such a wonderful deal, why can you not raise the needed capital without hard earned tax payers cash.
Jake - 14 years ago
The Oilers Corporation is a privately owned business by the Katz Group. Somehow because it is a Sports business organization, they asert they are entitled to public Municipal Funds. What reasons should we keep subsidizing these for-profit hockey outfits? Not my municipal bucks, thanks.
Ken - 14 years ago
Mr Katz did not become a billionaire by making bad business decisions. He wants to increase his fortune at the expense of the Edmonton taxpayers. If he wants an arena, let him build it himself. It's the same old game, get wealthy on someone elses money. I am an avid hockey fan however the timing of this is terrible. The Oilers, Oil Kings, Falcons and Stockton are all at the bottom or close to bottom in their respective leagues. I would suggest that Mr Katz spend some money on buying out Oiler player contracts, replace these players with legitimate hockey players and terminate The President Of Hockey Operations and and his scouting staff.
Rajwa - 14 years ago
I just want a new arena, I don't care who owns it, who operates it, who pays for it. Seriously, I love Edmonton, I love the Oilers. It is important for the city to get a new arena because lets face it, no one wants to come here and soon Rexall Place will be too old of a building to watch anything in. It will create jobs, give the city a facelift, and really give the city a brighter future. Those who are so against it, do not have Edmonton in their best interests in my opinion and really make me mad. Don't blame Daryl Katz because our Tax dollars are not covering city expenses. Blame the government. I am sick and tired of watching Edmonton get bashed in sports, by athletes, by the media, and by its own citizens. If you don't like it move.
Frank Belzile - 14 years ago
As a tax payer in the city of Edmonton I think I should have a say ... Mayor Mandel says the mayor and concillors should be making the decision on behalf of the tax payers ... I say put it out as a referandum on the next municipal election ... After all this would not be precedent setting ... we had a referandum on the outcome of the Muni (Airport ), most all traffic is now operating out of the International Airport . Our taxes should not finance BIG BUSINESS!!! Katz with his Billions CAN build this arena to house his sport team !!
Larry - 14 years ago
Their numbers make no sense. That Property tax revenue they're bragging about is just going to move there from someplace else, where they'll nat be paying taxes anymore. The mayor and council have got to develop a good sense of pragmatic skepticism.
Neil Vancoughnett - 14 years ago
As a senior that would love to attend hockey games and concerts it is not within our budget Therefore a new arera is of no value to me. I cannot justify spending tax payers money on same. If Katz wants the arena let him pay for same.
Alberta Tax Payer - 14 years ago
This isn't just about City tax payers, they are also lobbying for Provincial monies and likely federal too.
Vince - 14 years ago
I think the plan is incredible, finally someone with vision for our city! For those that argue the price, look what 400 million is getting us on 23rd Avenue... an incredibly ugly albeit useful overpass. This 400 million would leave us with a utilized space in a downtown that so sorely needs creativity to match the awesome new art gallery! Well done to Katz for wanting more for our city!
Charles - 14 years ago
No, Katz group wants it, they should pay for the whole thing along with maintenance and everything else that goes along with it. We the general public can't afford to go to games now, how will we be able to afford to go to games after the new area is built. I hope the City Mayor and eldermen are smart enough not to give them money, land, free taxes or any perks that they will try to get. Montreal built their area with no taxpayers money and pay more taxes for their area than any other NHL team so can Edmonton.
Charles
Morris Fenerty - 14 years ago
Government has no business in business. Spending $400 million in taxpayer dollars for, what is at it's essence, a private business venture is contrary to the fundamental concept of good governance.
omer - 14 years ago
get a nhl team first then get the players to donate also, its like we have aonther peter polkington in the making.
Rhonda - 14 years ago
We have bigger things that could use that money. Off the top of my.....better snow removal for starters!
John Goldsmith - 14 years ago
So, he gets the gold mine--taxpayers get the shaft.
I have a suggestion for Mr. Katz-----Na Na nanana Hey Hey goodbye
downtown arena will never be built as long as public keep complaining about tax and all. if Edmonton Oilers ever move to the town because of lack of getting new arena, so be it, then public will learn the hard way for lack of support.
If I remember correctly, this is a business that Katz wanted to begin and the tax payers would not be billed for it. Now he wants to invest only 20% of the present quoted price. If he wants to start another new business he can invest in it without expecting the City of Edmonton to do so as well. Besides, I'm not aware of the tax payers not being billed extra from the original price quoted by the contractor(s).
I live on a limited medical disability income. I can't afford any extra's and the levels of government don't give cost of living increases to us. Why would I support Katz on this issue. There is no way funding from any level of gov't should go to this venture.
We have homeless which only a part of this money would help to get them off the street and trained so they can have jobs. We have poor who could use the money for the same thing.
Our healthcare got a little boost in the budget but that was only to keep things at last years level - not for any improvement to health care.
School testings have shown that dropping education levels are happening in Alberta - more money on schools and education would help reverse that trend.
As someone else said - the money could be used for snow removal in the winter - and for watering trees and other greenery during the drought times we have every year.
The money could be used to help expand the LRT into all areas of the city which would cut down on the number of buses needed to run into the downtown core and cut down on pollution.
The money could be used to fix roads and sidewalks. I use a walker, and no matter what time of year, it is hard to get around in the area I live in. Also, on the south side of the city (where I happen to live) there are lots of roads that have no sidewalks! Which means I have to walk on the road facing traffic - and I have been almost hit so many times because some drivers feel I shouldn't be on the road. But the question is - how do I get around then? I can't push my walker through the grass where sidewalks should be. If you think that's easy - you should try it. And as for drivers who honk at me or curse at me because I'm on the road - I wish they would show respect and realize - no sidewalk means the only option is to walk on the road.
I agree about the cost as well. $ 400 million is a naive projection and I have to wonder why the figure was so low balled! I would say we're looking at $ 1.5 billion or more.
Another point to consider is - with some events from Capital Ex being held in Rexall Place and the rest of the Northlands Grounds - what happens if a new arena is built downtown? You will have increased traffic flow to the downtown core and back out to Northlands. Which could lead to so many more problems - including violence - as there is more opportunity for criminals to attack the innocent.
I say that any new arena should be build on the Northlands Grounds! Keep it all together in one place. Why split it up and have people having to travel all over the place for events. As well, there is far less available parking in the downtown core. We could build a parkade at Northlands to help with the parking problems there.
I sincerely hope that City Council doesn't support this idea in the least. Anyone who does will not get my vote in the municipal elections which will be held in October this year. And that's something else the Mayor and Council need to remember. There jobs are up this October. If they want to keep it they better listen to the voters! In fact, even though Mayor Mandel is against it, I say this should go to a vote on the ballot. We should have a say in this amount of money being spent.
I have lots more to say - but I will wait and see what others have to say! *laughs*
Dawne
Let me see if I've got this right, Edmonton builds and maintains the arena, the Oilers move in, and play for free, and Katz gets every penny of revenue that is generated by any event held there? What could be more fair!
Hey, does any one out there want to build me an apartment building? I promise to only take HALF the revenue.
I think Mr. Katz has been out in the sun too long.
I'm astonished that the City of Edmonton is so eager to subsidize a billionaire's newest venture. Edmonton's transit system is deplorable; improving it would be a much better use of taxpayer dollars.
Oilers players have such high salaries because municipalities pay for their arenas - it's basic sports economics.
As to building an arena because the city spent an extravagant amount of money on a hideous new art gallery - all the more reason not to do it...
At 5% interest, the city would have to pay $20,000,000.00 per year, only for the interest. How would they generate this much income only through local taxation?
I could see the City paying for the Arena, if the Oilers would be owned by the City, but since they are owned by the Katz Group, they should pay for the Arena. If there is a need for the other Buildings (Offices, Condos etc). I guess the market will decide if this is needed.
The City however should consider to invest some Money into the project with Tax Credits as well as the surrounding Infrastructure (LRT, Buses etc).
Let's be realistic... the arena that both Northlands and the Katz Group want will NOT cost $400 million all-in!
Those (whoever that will be) who will be successful in securing a new facility will want a larger and more sophisticated facility. The infrastructure for water, power and sewage in the downtown area would need a compete overhaul to meet the capacity of 100+ toilets flushing simultaneously during intermission; 100 sinks+ washing hands in bathrooms; more electricity to power bigger jumbo screens; bigger kitchens; bigger boilers to keep the heat and hot water... and so on. That would likely be at the expense of taxpayers and those who pay utility bills. As well, an entire entertainment district would only add to the load of the system. If we are taking bets on cost over run and extra expense for the whole arena and supporting property (not including the hotel and casino)… I want to place my wager on $1.2 billion once you add the direct and indirect costs.
With respect to the management of the facility- all parties would need to get together to make the facility self sustaining. Northlands is haemorrhaging money and the Oilers need to pay their way. One side doesn't have an idea of what the other is doing or how they pay for it! At this time, if you asked anyone at the table what the actual cost of doing business is, you would likely have a lengthy period of uncomfortable silence. As managing a major arena has a mutual benefit to everyone, a long term business relationship with greater transparency is going to be key. As well, a Sustainability Account should be set up where a percentage of all ticket sales would go into an account so when we need to revisit renovations/new facility; the money is there! Not only would the Oilers, Live Nation, AEG and all other companies who use the building help to pay to keep it going but so would those who actually do use it.
The other question is: what to do with the existing building? It is still in great shape but does need a visit from "Arena Makeover". It would be an ideal 10,000+ concert /theatre hall. This would be a great phase 2 to any project. Turning over an arena adds a great deal of production costs and may not add value for most artistic-based concerts. This could control ticket prices and provide a much better experience for great musical and theatrical productions. There would be better sightlines and would not smell like a beer-soaked urinal like Rexall Place currently does.
I could go on but this only holds 4000 words Good luck to all!
A develper (KATZ) bought some land downtown, he has a plan for this land. Now as a developer of this land, he applies to city hall for a building permit to build what he would like to. If he is sucsessful, he can build the building of his desire, and charge admission, or rent the way he sees fit. Then he can make his next billion $$$. Also city hall can have him pay his fair share of taxes right from the get go, and not be giving a BILLIONAIRE (KATZ) any tax concssions like our city employees did for another multi millionaire developer . This is how the city can pay for LRT, snow removal, pothole repairs, more police, and hockey arenas for our children who might go on to work for katz and help him win a stanley cup. I am watching how our employees,( the mayor, and alderpeople) will be handling this. In case they do the wrong thing, my wife and myself are already looking at moving out of this city just as soon as we can. Our tax statement we just got a few weeks ago, has us paying 354 more $$$ this year. I hate to see what the taxes will be if we have to pay for all that I mentioned above plus a billionaire's new vision for Edmonton
I look at it this way. Who builds arenas in small communities? The community not the private sector. This beautiful complex should be built by Edmonton and surrounding communities of Edmonton and private investors. Over the long run the city will get back there money two fold. It's time for a new home for the Oilers. Its needed badly. Lets do it and do it right.
Please dont forget 85 million on a arts barn what a waste of tax payers money.Mayor wants expo for 2 billon dollars,council hasno problem jacking taxes up every year but cannot spend money on roads and fixing existing facilitys because there is no glory in that DO NOT ALLOW COUNCIL TO MAKE THE VOTE THIS SHOULD BE A REFERENDUM VOTE ITS OUR MONEY,KATZ GETS RICHER AND RICHER AND THE TAX PAYER GETS THE SHAFT
One fact that constantly gets over-looked is that the existing arena/concert venue is going on 40 years old. The City of Edmonton will require a new venue within 5 to 10 years if we want to keep getting concerts, have a hockey team at the NHL level, and be a notable city in North America.
If the City could use tax dollars to build an Art Gallery that less than 10% of the population will ever see, why not help support our hockey team that brings in millions for the City.
If Katz wants ANY return on his investments, & wants the City of Edmonton to build the arena, the City should have a right to at least 51% of the profits--according to his plan to have the City borrow $400 million to build just the arena. I do NOT believe Katz has any right to expect all the gate receipts for ANY event if he expects the taxpayers of this city to contribute ANY money!
The tax dollars are those that will be generated by taxing the arena district and nothing else. The city of Calgary has done the borrow moneya nd use the taxes from that development to pay for the debt.
I can understand why Katz has changed his mind in putting 100,000,0000 in the arena. First. Unless he's given complete control then why do that. Whjy pay 1/4 of the total cost and own the prime tentant if he's not going to have who he wants running the place.
Second. The rent of the lease and the taxes that he would have to pay on top of the 100,000,000 would be crazy. Mr. Katz dind't get his wealth by being stupid. Try calculating 1000,000,000 x potential rent + taxes =?????
We are seniors & cannot afford tickets to oilers games and there is no way people should pay something that he thought up it is his idea and so he should pay with all his money and quit trying to think up ideas for others to pay.... so I don't intend to be paying for his dream I can't afford alot for my own dreams... so take your ideas to another city or province.
I myself love the Oilers and am sorry to hear that some folks would rather see them go. I would gladly donate to keep the Oliers here and in a new rink downtown generating new revenues and a modern atmosphere in our core.
I am sure that given the opportunity, a handful of other cities would gladly take on the costs for an NHL team to have them.
Did everyone pick up the new "buzz" words "it's complicated' (katz-radio interview, Lyle Best, businessman wants arena downtown)?
Yep, and they are complicating it by squirming around ideas to get municipal funds.
Pssh! R U kinding me? I think that's the most selffish crap I ever heard! We just had a recession, plus we pay enough as is with Taxes. HOW ABOUT TAKING THAT KIND OF CASH AND BUILD A BETTER TRANSIT SYSTEM!!! Build heated shelters FOR WHEN IT's "-30" OUTSIDE! OR have more busses running, oh oh all the idea's I have if I had that kind of money.(KATZ) LISTEN 2 THE PEOPLE!!!!
NO NO NO why should taxpayers be told to foot the bill. If taxpayers want to purchaser anything for themselves they need to get the $s first. Why does government always put the cart before the horse. The hockey arena was supposedly purchased as an investment. If HE wants a new arena let him make arrangements a purchase it himself, NOT AT TAXPAYERS EXPENSE!!!
We believe that if Katz wants a new arena that he should pay for the whole thing except of course for any road improvements because of the new arena and adjoining buildings.
Yes the city should build the arena and have Northlands run that portion of the development; I would even support 500 to 600 million dollars of tax payer’s money being spent on something that would possibly help our cities image. The fact that you have someone wanting to invest $100 million into Edmonton’s downtown is a miracle in its own. Or we could have better snow removal?
If Mr. Katz wants to build a new arena downtown, I say he should go for it. To ask for the city to fork over 3/4 of the bill to construct it is absolutely ridiculous. If Mr. Katz sees large returns for development around the arena and from the arena then he should pitch this to other businesses and organizations that can benefit from this kind of investment and build the arena with privately funded participants. It's bad enough that it will cost a fortune for the average Edmontonian to go and watch a game, buy beer, pay for parking and to use our tax dollars on top of that is just over the top. If he can't get enough from private investment then obviously they don't see profitable returns and therefor would also be a bad idea for the city to invest in. Besides 300 million would plow a lot of roads, build homeless shelters, public recreation facilities, libraries... This is where the city should be looking to be putting our tax dollars to use.
No I will not pay my tax dollars for a New Arena That The OILERS HAVE NOT EARNED..... They cant get into the Playoffs, They Dont Deserve A New Rink... When They Win At Least One Cup, Then MAYBE I'll Be On Board
I'mve never seen such a bunch of whiners. Relative to a provincial/civic budget its a very small percentage. I'm sure all you negative people believe that the city should only fund what YOUR directly interested in. How come we didn't see this kind of negativity for the art gallery. A new arena will be used 100 times more than an art gallery, but I didn't see people complain then. What wrong with having nice things in a city. Go to any major city in North American and government assistance is provided to major projects in some form or another.
Jealousy will get you nowhere.
Downtown traffic is too conjested as it is, why add to the problem with another eyesore to mirror the hideous Art Gallery? Let's learn from other cities like Ottawa who's downtown arena failed miserably and was moved ASAP.
the city should pay , they didnt mind paying 80 million for a museum, im sure the arena will be used by more people and generate more revenue than that shiny peice of steel of a museum. If the city is so proud of the oilers and want them to stay put here is there chance to step up to the plate. Enough of the talk, do something.
So he (Katz), proposed the building HE wants, but wants the taxpayers (us) to pay for it, and then he (Katz) wants ALL the revenue from it? I say - take a hike? There are too many other projects on the table as it is, and my taxes climb every year and still don't cover those things. Katz should go back to the drawing board - and that includes rethinking the Oilers.
It is ridiculous to even think about building a rink in our downtown core. We already have enough traffic problems downtown without the rink. Our downtown is not designed to handle the type of traffic this project will create. Also we have other things that need to be fixed first like the roads and show removal. A new coliseum does no good when you can't drive to it.
To quote long-running TV program "The Simpsons", building an arena such as this amounts to "...using public money to build a playground for the rich and powerful...".
Absolutely no taxpayer dollars. The argument that we'll get the money back in taxes carries no weight. If the arena is built the city will get the taxes no matter who pays now. Let Katz and the Oilers foot the bill. Most of us can't afford to go to the arena now and I don't think a new one will be any cheaper! Moira G.
I think it should be half half with the Gov getting the tax rev.
No chance in H*** that the City of Edmonton and it's tax payers should have to fit the bill for this project. If council does vote for this deal they should all hand in their resignations. Many roads, sidewalks, homeless, and other things need our tax dollars rather than some billionaire who can not even come forward and tell us all why he needs our money. Mr. Katz, if it is such a wonderful deal, why can you not raise the needed capital without hard earned tax payers cash.
The Oilers Corporation is a privately owned business by the Katz Group. Somehow because it is a Sports business organization, they asert they are entitled to public Municipal Funds. What reasons should we keep subsidizing these for-profit hockey outfits? Not my municipal bucks, thanks.
Mr Katz did not become a billionaire by making bad business decisions. He wants to increase his fortune at the expense of the Edmonton taxpayers. If he wants an arena, let him build it himself. It's the same old game, get wealthy on someone elses money. I am an avid hockey fan however the timing of this is terrible. The Oilers, Oil Kings, Falcons and Stockton are all at the bottom or close to bottom in their respective leagues. I would suggest that Mr Katz spend some money on buying out Oiler player contracts, replace these players with legitimate hockey players and terminate The President Of Hockey Operations and and his scouting staff.
I just want a new arena, I don't care who owns it, who operates it, who pays for it. Seriously, I love Edmonton, I love the Oilers. It is important for the city to get a new arena because lets face it, no one wants to come here and soon Rexall Place will be too old of a building to watch anything in. It will create jobs, give the city a facelift, and really give the city a brighter future. Those who are so against it, do not have Edmonton in their best interests in my opinion and really make me mad. Don't blame Daryl Katz because our Tax dollars are not covering city expenses. Blame the government. I am sick and tired of watching Edmonton get bashed in sports, by athletes, by the media, and by its own citizens. If you don't like it move.
As a tax payer in the city of Edmonton I think I should have a say ... Mayor Mandel says the mayor and concillors should be making the decision on behalf of the tax payers ... I say put it out as a referandum on the next municipal election ... After all this would not be precedent setting ... we had a referandum on the outcome of the Muni (Airport ), most all traffic is now operating out of the International Airport . Our taxes should not finance BIG BUSINESS!!! Katz with his Billions CAN build this arena to house his sport team !!
Their numbers make no sense. That Property tax revenue they're bragging about is just going to move there from someplace else, where they'll nat be paying taxes anymore. The mayor and council have got to develop a good sense of pragmatic skepticism.
As a senior that would love to attend hockey games and concerts it is not within our budget Therefore a new arera is of no value to me. I cannot justify spending tax payers money on same. If Katz wants the arena let him pay for same.
This isn't just about City tax payers, they are also lobbying for Provincial monies and likely federal too.
I think the plan is incredible, finally someone with vision for our city! For those that argue the price, look what 400 million is getting us on 23rd Avenue... an incredibly ugly albeit useful overpass. This 400 million would leave us with a utilized space in a downtown that so sorely needs creativity to match the awesome new art gallery! Well done to Katz for wanting more for our city!
No, Katz group wants it, they should pay for the whole thing along with maintenance and everything else that goes along with it. We the general public can't afford to go to games now, how will we be able to afford to go to games after the new area is built. I hope the City Mayor and eldermen are smart enough not to give them money, land, free taxes or any perks that they will try to get. Montreal built their area with no taxpayers money and pay more taxes for their area than any other NHL team so can Edmonton.
Charles
Government has no business in business. Spending $400 million in taxpayer dollars for, what is at it's essence, a private business venture is contrary to the fundamental concept of good governance.
get a nhl team first then get the players to donate also, its like we have aonther peter polkington in the making.
We have bigger things that could use that money. Off the top of my.....better snow removal for starters!
So, he gets the gold mine--taxpayers get the shaft.
I have a suggestion for Mr. Katz-----Na Na nanana Hey Hey goodbye