Bailouts

Q: Do you agree with the plan to finance a public purchase of Nationwide Arena with casino money to help solve the Blue Jackets' financial problems and keep them in Columbus?

A: No. I have a several problems with this scheme. Firstly, it leaves Columbus to absorb the outcome of a risky sports investment. A New York Times article states, “The Blue Jackets is one of four NHL teams playing to less than 80% capacity. Attendance has trended downward every season but one since 2001/2002”. The people have already voted on this proposal with their attendance. When the city starts into the game of government bailouts – who is going to have their hand out next? Is City Hall going to want us to bail out the Casino in 10 years too?