The Pegula’s, who own the Buffalo Bills and the Buffalo Sabres, released last week that they would like a new stadium built for the Buffalo Bills entirely funded by taxpayer money. AP reports that the costs are estimated to amount to $1.4 billion on the low end. Negotiators made it clear to Erie County government officials that if Erie County is not willing to pay for the stadium, there are several other cities across the country who would and the Bills would have no issue moving.
Duane Whitmer, Erie County Libertarian Party Chairman and Erie County Comptroller candidate stated: “The Bills statistically have had one of the most energetic fan bases, even when they were not making the playoffs for over 20 years. Their fan base is recognized worldwide for their charity, their tailgates and their rambunctiousness. The NFL, which profited $16 billion in 2019, and the Pegula’s who are worth anywhere between $5 and $7 billion should not be placing the burden of paying for this stadium on future Bill’s fans. Unlike most opponents for this plan, I have a free-market solution that works for everyone: the Bills should model their strategy after the Green Bay Packers who sell “stock certificates” to raise money for capital expenditures. While they do not have voting rights, in theory you could give them perks such as ticket and merchandise discounts, or in true Buffalo fashion, throw a ‘shareholder meeting’ every year which is just an excuse to tailgate. Instead of playing hardball and taking advantage of their dedicated fans, the Pegula’s should instead work with the fans in the area without placing unnecessary burdens on them.”
The Erie County Libertarian Party is a recognized affiliate of the Libertarian Party of New York, fighting for smaller government, decentralization, and the individual. Learn more at eriecountylp.org.
