According to the Journal Star today (I’d link to it, but it’s not up on their site at this time):
The Illinois Sports Facilities Authority, chaired by former Gov. James Thompson, is expected to make an offer to the Tribune Co. next week to acquire and renovate Wrigley Field. That bid could include a request from the General Assembly to issue state-backed bonds, authority spokesman Doug Scofield said Thursday.
The main thrust of the article is that this is a divisive issue, as downstate lawmakers don’t see any benefit of this plan to people outside of Chicago. Gee, you think?
Forbes valued the team at $592 million in 2007. They make tons of profit every year despite not winning a World Series for 100 years. Why aren’t they making their own repairs and renovations to Wrigley Field? Why should any taxpayers be forced to give money to benefit this multi-million-dollar ball club?
This will be an absolute waste of taxes. Let the billionaire Sam Zell pay for his renovations, if they are really needed.
To make restorations and infrastructure improvements for a private owner-NO!! What the hell, his name isn’t Vonachen! To buy the ball park and own it? Yes, it would be the only money producing asset the State owns.
How can we stop this?