No public money for future Flames arena, says Nenshi

Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi says he supports the idea of a new arena for the Calgary Flames, but he does not support contributing taxpayers money to the venture.

The head of hockey operations for the Flames, Brian Burke, told the Calgary Chamber of Commerce this week the Saddledome needs to be replaced.

"We need a new building. Obviously everyone knows that," said Burke.

Nenshi says he would welcome any new arena proposals, provided the Flames pay the cost.

"I've said many, many times that I don't believe in public funds going after private money," said Nenshi. "As soon as they buy the land I would be happy to expedite the development process."

Derek Fildebrandt of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation also does not support public money paying for any new arena.

"Taking public tax dollars from middle class Calgarians and handing it to billionaires to pay millionaires is just not in line with our values."

The Edmonton Oilers organization is building a new downtown arena with most of the funding coming from the municipal government.