Last night’s debate, sponsored by the WNY Coalition for Progress and WNYMEDIA.net, was very illuminating. You can read a description of the 4 panelists’ positions here. I’ve been opposed to the use of corporate welfare to lure Bass Pro since day one. My mind wasn’t changed by the debate, however, the information presented reinforced my position.

The argument was put forth that retail businesses, like suburban malls, receive subsidies because tax dollars are used for infrastructure improvements, such as improved roadways. As far as I’m concerned, that is nothing but a bunch of spin to try and make a comparison that is not at all valid. Suburban malls, and other private retail, are built with private dollars in response to market conditions. Infrastructure improvements are needed because people are free to make the choice where they want to live, shop and travel. Subsidizing Bass Pro denies us a choice and denies us the chance to vote with our wallets.

All the panelists basically agreed that government subsidies are not the ideal way to spur development. Those in favor of the Bass Pro plan wiggle out of ending subsidies by saying “if we don’t take the money, someone else will!” I was taught that if something is wrong, it is wrong and making the right decision is usually not the easiest thing to do. Someone has to be first and stick up for economic commonsense instead of going along to get along and perpetuating a system that is failing.

This isn’t just about Bass Pro. It is about the opportunity for government to take a stand and start moving in the right direction. Subsidizing Bass Pro is not going to “save” Buffalo or accomplish anything even close as long as we keep letting government take our money to spend as they see fit, with no real risk or accountability.

A frequent and valid complaint that was aired during the debate is that Buffalo is long on talk but short on actually finishing any major projects. That observation is spot on and building Bass Pro on the water’s edge only prolongs a project that has already been approved. Not only is there a plan in place, but it is underway right now. Dropping Bass Pro into the mix at this 11th hour will necessitate more delays to accommodate the need for architectural drawings and more environmental studies. We have a plan, it has been widely debated and is based on input from the public as well. Buffalo wants the waterfront development now . . .not a few more years down the road to accommodate a sporting goods store paid for with taxpayers’ money.

[tags]Bass Pro, Bass Pros & Cons, canalside, waterfront, development, inner harbor, Buffalo, ECHDC[/tags]