Community Brain Storming: Will Bucks arena benefit the African American community?
Nearly 300 individuals convened at St. Matthew CME Church, 2944 N. 9th Street, to hear what elected officials and stakeholders had to say about funding for a new Milwaukee Bucks Arena, which appears to be stuck in a holding position. Republican lawmakers who comprise a majority in both chambers of the legislature don’t believe they have enough votes to push through a proposed $500 million arena to replace the Bradley Center. The hang-up on this project is $250 million in public funds, which escalates to $400 million when interest is included. Ideas being tossed about are as follows: Milwaukee County would pony up $80 million over a 20 year period by allowing the state to squeeze Milwaukee County residents for $80 million in unpaid fines over a 20 year period. The City of Milwaukee’s commitment would be to erect a $35 million parking structure and put another $12 million in tax incremental financing.
Nearly 300 individuals convened at St. Matthew CME Church, 2944 N. 9th Street, to hear what elected officials and stakeholders had to say about funding for a new Milwaukee Bucks Arena, which appears to be stuck in a holding position. Republican lawmakers who comprise a majority in both chambers of the legislature don’t believe they have enough votes to push through a proposed $500 million arena to replace the Bradley Center. The hang-up on this project is $250 million in public funds, which escalates to $400 million when interest is included. Ideas being tossed about are as follows: Milwaukee County would pony up $80 million over a 20 year period by allowing the state to squeeze Milwaukee County residents for $80 million in unpaid fines over a 20 year period. The City of Milwaukee’s commitment would be to erect a $35 million parking structure and put another $12 million in tax incremental financing.
