Ballard Not Big on Convention Bid
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe City of Indianapolis has been named one of 15 finalists to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention, but key officials do not appear to be on board with the price tag for such an event. Mayor Greg Ballard's Spokesman Marc Lotter tells our partners at WTHR-TV he “would not bet on” the estimated $60 million in private funding coming together to support a bid. Visit Indy Vice President of Communications Chris Gahl says other major events on the city's convention calendar would also make it difficult. Tourism officials believe hosting a national political convention would have to be “in Super Bowl range in terms of community support.” The city is scheduled to host the 2016 NCAA Women's Final Four and is currently bidding on the Super Bowl in 2018.
Former State Democratic Party Chairman Robin Winston says the convention would bring jobs and “every media outlet” would be reporting live from the city.
Marion County Democratic Chair Joel Miller calls Mayor Ballard's reluctance to bid “shameful, disrespectful and blatantly political.”
Other cities being considered include Chicago, New York, Miami, Phoenix and Pittsburgh.
Source: WTHR-TV