Edmonton city councilors split on proposed arena

The latest report for the proposed downtown arena was brought to council on Wednesday and councilors were full of questions and criticism.

Many councilors shared varying opinions on the issue.

Linda Sloan believes council is being corralled into the decision.

"I'm becoming increasingly uncomfortable with the conclusion as it appears to formulate"

Councilor Don Iveson is questioning the proposed foundation model.

"I wonder if you can explain to me how this is different from the work that Northlands has been doing?"

Dave Loken is concerned about the misinformation from people who are against the project.

"So, statements being made out there by some groups that this will cost the city $350 million, $450 million, those kind of numbers are just not accurate"

While the Katz group has committed $100 million to the project, the city is negotiating within the idea that a new arena would cost $450 million. About $125 million coming from a ticket tax and $125 million coming from a community revitalization levy but there are still no answers as to where the remaining money will come from.

Mayor Stephen Mandel is concerned about the outcome if a deal can't be reached.

"This has got nothing to do with the Oilers whatsoever. This has to do with whether we have a vision for the city to develop a downtown that's going to be competitive with the world, not a downtown that has a bunch of vacant land."

More specific details of the negotiation are expected on April 6th.

With files from Vinesh Pratap.