RI Voters Should Decide Fate of Proposed PawSox Stadium, Says Taxpayer Group
Thursday, September 14, 2017
The Rhode Island Center for Freedom and Prosperity is recommending that the voters of Rhode Island should decide the fate of the proposed funding scheme for a new stadium for the Pawtucket Red Sox.
"There is simply too much distrust of government right now for the public to accept what will be perceived as a backroom deal. If this stadium is to be publicly owned, then the people should have a direct say. This is not your typical corporate subsidy deal and has many subtleties. Proponents and opponents should have the chance to make their case to the public and let the chips fall where they may,” said Mike Stenhouse, CEO for the Center.
With hearings set to begin on the stadium, the Center says that an alternative path where Rhode Islanders have the question placed directly before them in a 2018 referendum, as is the process for most public bonds is the better approach.
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Regarding the related issue of eminent domain, the Center is urging state and local officials to avoid setting any precedents before it is clear the public supports the venture.
Further, the Center reiterates its position that the government seizure of private property should never occur for private economic development purposes. However, the fact that the proposed stadium would be publicly owned, presents an added consideration; but is yet another reason why the public should first make the call.
The Center continues to recommend that state eminent domain statutes be reformed to prohibit eminent domain for private uses, similar to the bill (S2409) submitted by Senator Mark Cote in 2016.
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