After a public backlash, Phoenix has posted detailed informationabout its downtown arena, its current and proposed deals with the Phoenix Suns, and ways for residents to provide input.
Earlier this month City Council members postponed a vote on a new deal with the Suns to renovate the Talking Stick Resort Arena. Instead, the council directed staff to post financial and historical documents about the city-owned arena and its business relationship with the Suns, who operate the arena.
The city will also hold five public meetingsbetween Jan. 5 and Jan. 10 to share information about the proposed arena deal. It calls for Phoenix to pay $150 million in initial costs and the Suns to pay $80 million. It would also include a new fund for future renovations with Phoenix kicking in up to $25 million over 12.5 years and the Suns contributing up to $12.5 million.
If the city and Suns do not reach an agreement the current contract allows the team to begin the process of determining whether the 26-year-old building is obsolete.The current deal could allow the Suns to leave downtown in 2022. However, Jason Rowley, Suns CEO and president, has said the team wants to staydowntown.
MORE: Details About Arena’s History, Finances And Phoenix's Business Relationship With The Suns
In addition to the public meetings, residents can leave comments by calling 602-262-7177 or emailing [email protected].
According to the city’s website, “...when you submit an email it falls under the city's policy which states that the email message is: (1) subject to public disclosure under the Public Records Law, (2) is not private or confidential and (3) is retained for 90 days.”
The City Council is scheduled to vote on the proposal on Jan. 23, 2019.
