YardRat
07-22-2012, 08:41 AM
http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20120722/OPINION04/307220013
Though it would have been quite a treat for Buffalo Bills fans had management exercised its option to minimize television blackouts, there’s still an even more meaningful way to reward extraordinarily loyal Bills fans: Owner Ralph Wilson must commit to the club’s long-term presence in western New York.
With the current lease on 72,000-seat Ralph Wilson Stadium set to expire next year, a new agreement should reflect not only fan loyalty but taxpayers’ considerable investment in the team.
Remember, $63 million in state tax dollars financed the last major renovation project at Wilson stadium in 1998. And Erie County taxpayers are currently spending at least $7 million annually for stadium operations.
Though it would have been quite a treat for Buffalo Bills fans had management exercised its option to minimize television blackouts, there’s still an even more meaningful way to reward extraordinarily loyal Bills fans: Owner Ralph Wilson must commit to the club’s long-term presence in western New York.
With the current lease on 72,000-seat Ralph Wilson Stadium set to expire next year, a new agreement should reflect not only fan loyalty but taxpayers’ considerable investment in the team.
Remember, $63 million in state tax dollars financed the last major renovation project at Wilson stadium in 1998. And Erie County taxpayers are currently spending at least $7 million annually for stadium operations.