Arizona Chamber Of Commerce And Industry Backs Talking Stick Deal

Published: Friday, December 14, 2018 - 4:28pm
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The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry is throwing its weight behind a proposal to keep the Phoenix Suns in the Valley.

This follows Phoenix City Council members Wednesday delaying a vote on a $230 million renovation to Talking Stick Resort Arena, home to the Suns.

Chamber spokesman Garrick Taylor said his organization doesn’t want the arena to become a white elephant.

“Let’s keep in mind, the presence of that arena has resulted in a $182 million annual economic impact to the city and it’s actually one of the few city buildings that turn a profit.”

Under the current proposal, the City of Phoenix would provide $150 million in public tax dollars upfront for the renovation and the Suns’ organization would contribute $80 million.

This does not include an additional $2 million in annual funds the city would pay for 12 ½ years to cover revitalization needs in the future.