TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) - Republican lawmakers from the east and west sides of metropolitan Phoenix are at odds over a proposal to fund a new arena for the Phoenix Coyotes.
Sen. Bob Worsley's legislation would allow the creation of a new "community engagement district" that would keep half its sales tax revenue to fund arena construction. Worsley said Monday he's trying to keep the Coyotes in Arizona.
Rep. Anthony Kern of Glendale strongly opposes building a new arena with taxpayer funds that will compete with Gila River Arena. The Coyotes currently play in the taxpayer funded arena but the city has pulled out of its contract.
Coyotes President Anthony LeBlanc issued a statement saying the team is focused on staying in metro Phoenix and "Glendale simply is no longer an option."
