Expert: *Big Owe* - 5/5/2001

Question
I heard a rumor that the City of Montreal would build a new stadium for the expos contingent on the revenue-sharing agreement being instituted in MLB.  How true is this?

Answer
Hi,

There really is no truth to that rumor. Back in 1998-99, the Expos came to an agreement with the provincial government on a loan arrangement, which we all assume still stands. However, with the project completely on hold, we can wonder if the deal would be enough for the present ownership group.

Jeffrey Loria and David Samson have been using the revenue-sharing argument lately, saying that it would make no sense to build a park without it. They did not mention that fact when they took over, rather only when they shelved the project. Perhaps it is only an excuse, it's impossible to judge what they are up to with certainty.