The TCC report (apparently purposely leaked to The Bulletin, before today’s Council Meeting to consider how to meet David Crissafulli’s promise to his mates to bail-out The Fury) speaks some truth and some complete nonsense.
It is unquestionably true that, as the report states, ''Over a period when council is seeking to reduce its operating deficit from the current year estimate of $14.7 million to break even this sponsorship commitment makes the end goal that much more difficult to achieve''
But it is arguably nonsense to claim without any supporting evidence, “…that the money would benefit the city and its residents in two major areas including:
• Promoting or contributing to economic development of its area or part of its area;
• Promoting or attracting commerce, industry or tourism in its area or to part of its area”
The Fury is a business – pure and simple. What other business in this town does (or should) TCC subsidise to the tune of $1 million – certainly not mine! (and please, don’t suggest The Cruise Ship Terminal)
Exactly how will the economic development of the town benefit from the subsidy? – Surely not from supporting Spotless to further develop their game-day junk-food franchise (at the expense of local community groups)?
As for attracting tourism to the town (the most often cited reason for public subsidies to sports events such as this and the V8’s) – when was the last time you decided to visit Perth as a result of watching a Fremantle Dockers game at Subiaco on the box?
See also this post by John Quiggin on the subject.
We may all have to pay for this nonsense but I suspect that, as a result, Les and his apprentice will pay at the next Council election.
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