If this is a project that the ratepayers decide they want to fund then I would prefer to see Langford borrow from the MFA or the Feds and do it properly. Although it sounds attractive having the leaseholder loan the money to the city, you have to wonder what sort of the deal the city is going to get. If I were the operator I would demand a huge premium. There is far too much uncertainly in any new venture to try and anticipate what the outcome might be 66 years down the road. Free rent for money up front might sound good in theory, but the taxpayer will still have to maintain the facility anfor the duration of the term.

He indicated that if a deal with the private sector cannot be reached that they will go to the electorate, either through a referendum or a counter petition, to secure the millions needed for Langford’s share of the costs.