The politicians in the area seem to be feeling the pressure and changing their tune. This is almost a 100% about face for our county exec since last month. And about damn time:
"Isle of Capri has set the bar," Onorato said during an appearance on WDVE-FM's Morning Show. "They've made it very clear what they believe is going to be generated from gaming and what they're willing to put back into the community.
"The best strategy for me, as chief executive, is to continue to put the pressure on all three (slots license) applicants. It's not a matter of not endorsing Isle of Capri; I'm endorsing the concept -- whoever gets this, should help build this."
By "help," Onorato means fully fund the project, short of infrastructure and overruns.
"That's correct," Onorato said.
From Onorato's perspective, the need for the facility and the benefits of the Penguins playing in it are beyond questioning.
The dilemma is making it happen financially.
"We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build this thing without tax dollars," Onorato said. "And, if we miss this opportunity, we're not going to see it again, because if that team leaves, it's not coming back.
http://pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/trib/newssummary/s_428670.html
