Voting for New York Islanders' new arena commences, voters reject proposal –NHL offseason Update
It did not take long to realise that tax payers living in the Nassau County, the area where New York Islanders new arena was proposed to be built, were against the idea of it costing them more than $400 million, which would be covered by a direct raise in
annual property tax, which they were just not ready to pay.
Along with the arena, a ballpark would be constructed to accommodate the regions minor league baseball team, but that was not enough for the people to allow money from their pocket to enter into that of already a rich businessman.
It is strongly believed by residents of the county that the ultimate beneficiary of the situation would be New York Islanders owner, Charles Wang, and that he should be the one investing into his teams’ new arena.
Wang himself was extremely nervous as to how the campaign would play out, which would either allow him to remain till 2015 and onwards, when the lease on their current stadium finishes, or signal a relocation.
"Nervous I think is probably the best way to do it", Wang said last week of his feelings about the election. "I think it is going to be a tight race. We believe we have something very special here. We want the people to go out there and vote -- and vote
yes, obviously".
Polls officially opened up at 6 a.m. for voters, who have up until 9 p.m. to cast their votes and use their fundamental right. Although the voting process went smoothly, according to Nassau County Board of Elections Commissioner, William Biamonte, the turnout
was much lower than expected.
More than three hours after the voting had completed, the announcement was made that Long Island voters had chosen to reject the proposal by show of majority, 33,526 to 24,553.
Monday’s decision by voters, who are already considered some of the highest taxed in the country, have shown New York Islanders owner, Charles Wang, that they will not allow their money to be used for a business venture that would greatly benefit him only.
With the clock ticking down till 2015, Islanders are on the move to find a new home and hopefully a new stadium.
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