I got to thinking about my last post, and I have an idea.
Do you remember how the federal government regulated speed limits in the ’70s? They told states they could have any speed limit they wanted, but if they wanted federal money to maintain the roads, the speed limits had to be no faster than 55 mph.
Suppose the City Council were to pass an amendment that says the Civic Center Authority can name the venue and arena whatever it wants, but if it wants HRA tax revenues, it will have to be named the “Peoria Civic Center” and “Carver Arena”? Doesn’t that sound fair? That way, if they can wean themselves off HRA taxes, they can sell the naming rights. But as long as they’re operating on taxpayer dollars, the taxpayers get to decide the name.
I think we’ve earned that right, don’t you? According to the Journal Star’s editorial today, HRA taxes amount to $55 million. Here’s an issue where I agree with the Journal Star — the Civic Center should scale back their plans instead of selling the naming rights.
Great idea. I agree!
How about People of Peoria Center? It really does belong to the people. A good advertising gimmick could be….
POP into our center for your next convention, concert or whatever.
I just think the Civic Center is biting off more than they can chew — they’re overbuilding and having a hard time paying for it all. I’m starting to come around to Bill Dennis’s belief that HRA taxes are like crack to the Civic Center — they’re addictive, and they’re never enough.