Indiana

Pacers CEO: ?Everything Is on the Table?

By Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

Indiana Pacers Chief Executive Office Jim Morris says that everything is on the table in order to reach a fair and equitable settlement with the city, state and Capital Improvement Board over the operational costs of Conseco Fieldhouse.

Morris made his comments today at a news conference outlining a new health initiative in Indiana.

The Pacers are telling local officials that they can no longer cover the costs of operating Conseco Fieldhouse, which runs about $15 million annually.  Morris says the team is committed to being in Indiana for the next 50 years so they are open to finding an agreement that can make that happen.

Morris would not comment specifically on what the Pacers would be willing to give up in revenue should the city and CIB assume the operational costs.

State officials are looking at a number of ways to close the budget gaps for both Conseco and Lucas Oil.

In a news conference this morning, State Senate Pro Tem David Long said lawmakers are looking at making the solution as much of a Marion County one as possible.   However he did also note that when looking at user fees and having those who benefit from the facilities help pay for them, the public should know that the entire area benefits from events at the stadium, fieldhouse and  convention center, not just downtown Indianapolis.

Full post as published by Indiana Barrister on March 26, 2009 (boomark / email).