TLDR:
1) Public funding for sports stadiums is a big net-loss to local and state governments (Source: John Oliver's Last Week Tonight)
2) Billionaire Sports Team owners do not need to get public funding for their 'private' projects, while giving disproportionate benefits to local taxpayers (NBC Sports Chicago, WGN TV News)
3) Unsubstantiated spending by City of Chicago should be reined in.

I trust this CHANGE.org petition finds you in good health. I am writing to express my neighbors and my vehement opposition to the proposed public funding for the new White Sox stadium, particularly situated at The 78, as detailed in articles from various sources, including Chicago Business [1], NBC Sports Chicago [2], and WGN TV [3]. I would also like to draw attention to John Oliver's insightful commentary on the issues associated with public financing for sports stadiums [4].

While acknowledging the cultural significance of sports teams and their positive impact on the local economy, I find it difficult to support the White Sox's request for $1 billion in public funds for their new stadium. The financial well-being of our city is already under strain, the burden on the tax payers already too high due to pension commitments, mismanagement of city funds, and allocating such a substantial amount of public money to a private enterprise raises serious questions about priorities and fiscal responsibility.

It's noteworthy that the proposed stadium is to be located at The 78, a development project with its own set of economic implications. Given the ambitious nature of The 78, it is crucial to evaluate whether diverting public funds from other essential projects to support a private sports facility is justified, especially considering the pressing needs of our community.

Additionally, I am troubled by the prospect of increased burdens on local taxpayers, including higher taxes and the influx of out-of-town visitors. These visitors, often with little regard for the local infrastructure, can strain city resources and negatively impact the daily lives of residents.

Furthermore, it is important to recognize the financial capability of the team's billionaire owner, Jerry Reinsdorf. Given Mr. Reinsdorf's substantial wealth, there seems to be a more equitable solution where private funding can play a more significant role in financing the new stadium. I would also like to emphasize the team, under Mr. Reinsdorf's leadership, the team had a dismal performance in the last decade of professional baseball. While I understand that team dynamics can change, investing public funds in a team with a questionable recent track record raises concerns about the potential return on investment for the taxpayers.

In conclusion, I strongly urge you to oppose the use of public funds for the new White Sox stadium at The 78. It is essential to prioritize projects that address the immediate needs of the community and contribute to its long-term well-being, especially when considering the team's recent performance and the financial capacity of its owner.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Your signature on this petition would be highly appreciated.

Sources:

https://youtu.be/xcwJt4bcnXs?si=9RNPsX1e3cr8oxLB

https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/mlb/chicago-white-sox/jerry-reinsdorf-to-meet-with-state-lawmakers-as-white-sox-seek-1b-in-public-funds-for-new-stadium-sources/541261/

https://wgntv.com/sports/white-sox/report-reinsdorf-to-seek-1-billion-in-public-money-from/