Escambia County Commission has no economic plan which hurts the county when it is faced with proposals like professional hockey leasing the Civic Center.
Does hockey add to our quality of life? Will it attract economic development and jobs to the area? Is it wise to take money from the bed tax that can be used to promote tourism for hockey? Which adds more to our economy – tourism or hockey?
I do believe that having a Civic Center is more important to the image of the area, and I treat it similarly to a library or park. It separates us from the other cities in Northwest Florida and probably helps in attracting companies to the area. However, should the Commission find another way to subsidize than using bed tax dollars?
The Equestrian Center has been subsidized with General Fund and LOST funds over the years. Is it a park or event venue? It does serve a segment of the community and hosts several events that attract people from the region. Not sure if helps economic development.