Public subsidies for professional sports venues are frequently pitched as economic catalysts, promising jobs, tourism, and neighborhood revitalization. But when franchises relocate—or seek upgrades—taxpayers often remain on the hook for facilities no longer in use or needing additional reinvestment.

California is right to take wildfires seriously—2023 alone saw 7,000 fires and over 300,000 acres burned statewide. But climate resilience policies need to be implemented with the same care and clarity that planners expect from property owners.

In cities like Washington, D.C., and Denver, what looks like private investment often includes taxpayer contributions—just moved off-budget and into infrastructure, land use, and long-term tax breaks.

From The Hill