Councilwoman Godden Replies

I received a much more supportive reply from Councilwoman Jean Godden today.

Patrick,

Thank you for showing your support for our Seattle Storm. I’m pleased and excited that the Storm’s new owners and the City were able to come to an agreement that will keep the Storm playing in the Key Arena for years to come.

As you may already know, terms of the lease were discussed this week at a briefing in the Parks and Seattle Center Committee chaired by Councilmember Tom Rasmussen. I believe the proposed lease agreement to be a sound one that has significant benefits for both the City and the Storm. This lease will help maintain the Key as a lively venue and allow the Storm revenue streams that will keep them viable.

I won’t go into all the specific terms of the contract discussed here at the committee meeting except to say that there are several “public benefits” which may be of interest to Storm fans. These include:

-- 1000 tickets per season at no cost to local non-profits to distribute to children who might not otherwise be able to afford attending a game.

-- A “significant” community service program each season, such as promoting healthy and active lifestyles to young people and partnering with non-profit organizations to improve literacy.

-- An environmental sustainability program to help educate the public about steps they can take to contribute to a healthier environment.

-- A ticket pricing structure that will ensure at least 500 tickets are priced no greater than $15 per game.

As a Storm fan, who has enjoyed many games through the years and who has helped to ensure the long term success of the Seattle Center and the Key Arena, I believe this lease is a win-win. Rest assured I will be supporting this lease when it comes before the full council and look forward to the upcoming season.

Again, thanks for your support and Go Storm!!

My regards,

Jean

Jean Godden
Seattle City Councilmember

Seattle City Hall
Physical address: 600 4th Ave, Fl 2, Seattle, WA Mailing address: PO Box 34025, Seattle, WA 98124
Tel: 206-684-8807/ Fax: 206-684-8354
Website: http://www.seattle.gov/council/godden/

She shares quite a few of what the city gets in return as opposed to Councilman McIver's focus on what the city contributes. She also shares my opinion that the deal is fairly equitable.