Possible Gretzky statue move sparks debate

The statue of Wayne Gretzky that has been in front of Rexall Place since 1989 may be moved downtown to the new arena —but that doesn’t sit well with many fans.

Tony Caterina, the city councillor whose ward includes Rexall Place, says wording in the arena master agreement would allow the landmark to move. But he believes it should remain where Gretzky played as an Edmonton Oiler.

"History is where it’s made, not where you want to put it," he said.

Caterina’s feelings were echoed by Oilers’ fan Tony Barber.

"May as well leave it here,"  he said. "The name’s here. He did his stuff here."

Mayor Stephen Mandel doesn't want the statue to move, but told reporters on Tuesday that there are bigger issues to worry about.

"Must be a slow news day that you spend all this time on a statue," he said

Molson Brewery paid for the statue and believes it should be located where the Oilers play their home games.

Officials with Northlands, the organization that runs Rexall Place, says no one has approached them about a move. However, they believe that the statue should remain where Gretzky played and won four Stanley Cups.