I'll be the first to stand up and say, I'm not a tax and spend guy.
But the decision we in Milwaukee will have to make, is if we want the NBA and the Bucks to remain here like it has for the past 40 plus years.
And I say yes. Yes, economic times are tough. Yes, some people barely have enough for the things they really need. And yes, the NBA/Bucks are not as popular in these parts as they were in 1971...or the 80's. Or 2001.
But just ask the experience of an older fan, who watched the Braves leave town. Or closer to now, what has happened with Frontier Airlines swallowing up the hometown airline Midwest, only to gut it and watch it fall apart.
I don't believe we want to become a one major pro franchise town. I don't believe it's the time we want to go backwards.
A new arena would be more than the Bucks. It could be concerts. And events. And new life to revitalize certain areas of downtown.
I'm sure it would be a controversial issue, but with the Miller Park tax starting to get closer to the end, I'm thinking team owner Senator Herb Kohl has thought that the same tax could be extended for the replacement for the Bradley Center.
Sure, I have legitimate concerns. How much will Senator Kohl pony up? Will the ownership and team get any better than the spotty performances of the past decade? Does this city still have the passion for the NBA and the Bucks? And will the arena make enough of a difference with revenue streams to make the team more competitive?
Legitimate questions. But risks I believe are worth taking, to improve our city.
You can add your opinion to the conversation @lanceallan
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