Raise the Hammer

Mayor Fred's Response:

Hamilton - We have been hearing from our federal and provincial partners all along that the stadium issue should and would be decided locally.

That changed today. I am extremely disappointed that the decision is now being made by the upper levels of government.

I have been consistent in my support for a stadium located at the West Harbour because I believe it best serves the public interest.

The community has spoken loudly and clearly that the West Harbour makes the most sense for the people of Hamilton.

It is obvious that the upper levels of government are ignoring the community and have instead listened to private interests.

The truth is the West Harbour won. The West harbour won the support of the community. The West Harbour won because it is best for the community.

Powerful private interests compelled the federal and provincial governments to move the goal posts. They changed the game so they could win.

Regardless I am a supporter of the West Harbour. I will continue to be in favour of the West Harbour site for the Pan Am stadium. I am doing what I have always done and that is to safeguard the public interest of people of Hamilton. That means a stadium at the West Harbour.

Regardless of what happens I will continue to be an advocate of the redevelopment of the West Harbour.

I will present a motion to council at the first opportunity which if passed will authorize city staff to prepare a new plan for the West Harbour that are at least as significant and sustainable as a stadium and that a task force be created to spearhead the initiative.

Well this is one we can't blame on council, I have never seen a more shameless disgusting abuse of political influence in my life. Bob Young was prepared to walk away if he didn't get his way, maybe we should do the same. Let The Cats, the Feds and the Province pay for the whole damn thing. I can think of a million better ways to spend our money.

Comment edited by UrbanRenaissance on 2010-08-06 16:44:11