"Skeptical that Dade County can find a way to build a new
arena," Panthers Owner Wayne Huizenga said he would begin seeking
a new home for the team outside South Florida, according to a
front-page piece in Saturday's MIAMI HERALD. Huizenga Holdings
Exec VP James Blosser wrote to the Metro Dade Commissioners that
the county and team have failed to develop a "concrete, viable
and timely plan" to raise funds for a new arena. Blosser warned
the Panthers could be in a new city as soon as next season. The
decision "appears to put an abrupt end" to proposals floated by
some Metro officials for a combination of taxes to pay for a new
arena. That plan, which would have required additional state
support, was considered "shaky" by Huizenga. Asst. County
Manager David Morris: "It looks like they've decided that's it.
What can be said? I thought we had until October 31, but they
seem to have decided it's not worth the extra time. But that's
their choice." Four cities are mentioned as possible new homes
for the Panthers: Nashville (considered the frontrunner),
Atlanta, Charlotte and Portland. Blosser noted they are still
open to any proposals from local governments. Fort Lauderdale
may make a "last-gasp attempt" to get the team (Hartman &
Rafinski, MIAMI HERALD, 10/21).
