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The idea of a new arena downtown is not dead, but round one of negotiations is now over. Round two can now begin in earnest and from my study of American arena deals in mid-size cities it takes at least two rounds to find a deal everyone can live with. I think this is actually… Read More
Yesterday Council received an in-private update on the Katz Group’s changing position. The flavor of their concerns is reflected in John Karvellas’ letter that was released publicly yesterday. The letter focuses on coming to terms on cost overruns but as I said to the media yesterday (link updated) the disconnect with Council is over several… Read More
Construction season is upon us once again – but as each year passes Council is dedicating more of your tax dollars toward local roads, over and above the continued work on the main roads. I recently requested a report from City Administration on progress, which was debated June 26th at Transportation Committee. The report can… Read More
The City’s Sustainable Development Department released a working draft of the Growth Coordination Strategy today. I have not had time to digest the whole thing but the most interesting parts relate to the estimated costs of infrastructure that the City would be expected to provide in new Areas being proposed for growth (specifically in the… Read More
[Update December 28, 2011: links to City’s infrastructure budget page repaired. Also, City’s full summary can be found here. Also, I had 5.38% but the increase was in fact 5.39% because of a rounding error on my end.] Inclusive of drainage, waste and the tax increases, it will cost $178 more annually for an average… Read More