New Jersey Assemblyman Joseph Roberts and Assistant State
Senate Minority Leader Richard J. Codey have called for public
hearings on NJ Sports and Exposition Authority's tentative
agreement to "sweeten" the Devils' lease at Bryne Arena. Both
men complain lawmakers and taxpayers have been shut out of the
whole process (Stephen Hirsch, Bergen RECORD, 8/10)....WI Gov.
Tommy Thompson said the Brewers and his administration were "very
close" to agreeing on a financial package for a new stadium,
according to Craig Gilbert in this morning's MILWAUKEE JOURNAL
SENTINEL. The two sides still reportedly have "a number of
issues -- from money to control" to work out. Craig reports
there is talk of a September special session for the State
Legislature before it commences September 19. State officials
also disclosed they have retained a financial adviser to examine
the team's financial records. The consulting firm Public
Financial Management has "looked at the Brewers' records on the
state's behalf" (MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL, 8/10).
