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Thursday, March 11, 2010
Metro Chamber applaudes arena task force make-up
by Hal Silliman, published on November 20, 2009 at 10:07AM
Storyline: Regional Prosperity
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With announcement of Sacramento First Entertainment and Sports Complex Task Force, Nov. 19, by Mayor Kevin Johson, the Sacramento Metro Chamber issued this statement by President & CEO Matthew Mahood:
We are pleased that Mayor Johnson is taking a strong leadership role in solving this ongoing regional issue on how to finance and construct an entertainment and sports complex. We hope the task force can find a viable solution to building a world-class facility here that will attract quality entertainment for our residents.
The issue is complex and needs focused attention. We applaud the combination of task force members who have subject-matter expertise and civic interest in finding a solution.
In the past, the Metro Chamber, the Downtown Sacramento Partnership and the Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau have studied the matter diligently. Our own 2004 Arena Task Force’s findings still hold true:
- The current ARCO Arena is obsolete and needs to be replaced.
- A regional dialogue should be employed to determine the most feasible and appropriate sources of both public and private financing for such a project.
- Location of the facility in The Railyards is appropriate. But any location chosen should create a catalyst for complementary development or redevelopment.
- The site should have the ability to promote city and regional development goals of smart growth, transit orientation and urban revitalization.
The Metro Chamber looks forward to working with Mayor Johnson and the Task Force as needed in order to help move this complex issue to a successful conclusion.
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The Chamber, through the MetroPAC, was a fundraising animal for KJ's campaign. The chair of the PAC, Michelle Smira of MMS Strategies, one of the top contributers to the PAC...Smira.
Smira has been well covered on this website for recently leaving her volunteer position with KJ to except a contract with Nestle. She indirectly donates and helps solicit donations for KJ, she logs some hours as a volunteer, she lands the big contract with Nestle. It would almost seem like the donation was an investment in her own future.
Here we are today. The Chamber and our Mayor hand-and-hand again. Allegations of unethical behavior again (for KJ.) The Chamber doesn't care again. A special advisory council of volunteers who will be rewarded again. It may not be illegal, but it does seem a bit douchy.
I'd much rather see city resources focused on public safety, infrastructure maintenance, infill/redevelopment, and finding a solution for the homeless population.