The endless saga of the potential construction of an arena for the Ottawa Senators on LeBreton Flats is far from its conclusion, but the owner of the concession, Michael Andlauer, still has confidence in bringing the project to fruition.
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Unlike his predecessor the late Eugene Melnyk, the former minority shareholder of the Montreal Canadiens will erect a new building in downtown the federal capital, allowing the club to leave the Canadian Tire Center, which it has occupied since January 1996 At least that is his wish, because much remains to be done in the negotiations with the National Capital Commission (NCC) regarding the purchase of the coveted land.
Because even if the Senators concluded an agreement with the NCC in September allowing them to negotiate the acquisition of a space of approximately 435,600 square feet, the main thing is not done.
“It’s a process. I was warned that it was going to be difficult with them, the big boss of the organization declared to the TSN network on Thursday evening. I am optimistic, but I remain cautious. Like I said, I will always do what is in the best interests of the fans. And it must be acceptable to them.”
-“My understanding here is that there were terms in our agreement to be negotiated on a “market value”, which I completely support. That’s what I want: something right. Let’s just hope that the NCC will not change the rules of the game at the last second,” he also warned.
A quiet little day…
Failing to seal the outcome of this matter immediately, the businessman also wanted to clarify the Senators’ intentions regarding their farm club, which some rumors are sending to Hamilton. Local channel CHCH first reported that Andlauer will sell the Bulldogs (of the Ontario Junior Hockey League) to Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman and his family. Then, some raised the possibility of seeing the manager transfer the “Sens” subsidiary which is currently located in Belleville.
“When I hear falsehoods, I like to speak up. I owe it to the fans,” he said in a press release from the Belleville Senators, while denying speculation about a move from the American League team.
Thursday was rather eventful for the Senators, soundly beaten 4-0 by the Buffalo Sabres, much to the displeasure of a sullen crowd in Ottawa.
