Governments May Suffer From NFL Lockout: Governments that financed 65 percent of new stadiums in the past 20 years

Bloomberg Businessweek reports:

Governments that subsidized $7 billion of National Football League stadium construction will be the biggest losers if the New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys and other teams lock out players March 4.

Mayors and city officials of Houston, Miami, Minneapolis, San Diego and Kansas City, Missouri, have written the NFL asking that it avoid a work stoppage that could cost the entire season and millions in revenue and wages for workers at stadiums, hotels, restaurants and other businesses that depend on games.

Governments that financed 65 percent of new stadiums in the past 20 years would receive an unexpected blow at a time when tight budgets are forcing them to dismiss teachers and firefighters and cut back other government services.

“We don’t want to lose a dime,” said Tony Young, San Diego City Council president, who said by telephone that the NFL’s Chargers generate at least $100 million of local spending. “We’re talking about janitors, parking-lot attendants and catering crews, people who are already struggling.”

Great moments in welfare for the well to do.