#atxcouncil: Beyond policy considerations, there simply isn't enough time to make an informed decision re: Soccer Stadium

"Also it is not good for a soul to be without knowledge,
And he sins who hastens with his feet."
Proverbs 19:2

Council is meeting this afternoon to discuss the alternative McKalla place proposals.  We're undecided about attending.  But, the fact that they're expecting to be able to make a final decision in two days after hearing about the alternative epitomizes why we said what we said at last Wednesday's meeting:



Highlights:

• This testimony occurred shortly after Adler 86ed CodeNext

• Too many "moving pieces" and "plates in the air."

• Lots of things (starting with the Ohio lawsuit) about which we don't know the outcome.
• Seems far fetched that they'll be resolved in a week.

• U.T. doesn't want to temporarily host a team.
• "Throws a big monkey wrench into our ability to successfully host a team in six months."

• Take 2019 off the table -- Too soon, too many unresolved issues.

• Macro concern remains MLS' business model.
• Fear we're making 20, to 40, to 80 year commitment for a league that might not be around in 10 years.

• Leslie Pool agreed with our point about U.T. not hosting a team.

We also largely agree with these remarks from local activist Bill Bunch:

Highlights:

• "Please reject this boondoggle...."

• Compares soccer stadium to Water Treatment plan #4, the biomass plant, and the Domain subsidies.

• "It takes my breath away that this is still on the table in this form."

• "The process has been broken and the product is indefensible."

• Council has "a fiduciary duty" to represent Austin Water customers.

• "You can't be serious about affordability in general and give away this kinds of corporate welfare.

• If the city can't find a good use for the property, it should be sold in an open and competitive process.