Council of the District of Columbia Committee on Economic Development Notice of Public Hearing 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20004

COUNCILMEMBER MURIEL BOWSER, CHAIRPERSON COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ANNOUNCES A PUBUC HEARING

ON

.. :: /.

Bill 20-563, District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of 2014

FEBRUARY 25, 2014 10,ooAM ROOM120

JOHN A. WILSON BIBLDING

1350 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, N.W.

On February 25, 2014, Councilmember Muriel Bowser, Chairperson of the Committee on Economic Development will hold a public hearing to consider Bill 20-563, the District of Columbia Sports and Entertairunent Complex Feasibility Act of 2014.

Bill 20-563 would require the mayor to conduct a feasibility study of the acquisition and develapment of the Robert F. Kennedy Stadium, Stadium-Armory, and Langston Golf Course, to determine the economic feasibility, economic impact, and costs of developing a 100,000 seat RFK domed stadium complex, an 18-hole championship golf course, a multimedia soundstage, a film and photography center, an indoor waterpark, and hotel accommodations. It would also require the mayor to study the parking and transportation needs for the proposed development, and make a report of his findings to the Council by February 15, 2015. Finally, the bill would require the mayor to produce three-dimensional models of the entertainment complex by February 15, 2016.

The public hearing will begin at 10:00 AM in Room 120 of the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Individuals and representatives of organizations wishing to testify should contact Rob Hawkins, Legislative Director for the Corrunittee on Economic Development, at (202) 741-0921, or ,rhawkins@dccouncil.us and furnish their name, address, telephone number, and organizational affiliation, if any, by the close of business Monday, February 24, 2014. Persons presenting testimony may be limited to 3 minutes in order to· permit each witness an opportunity to be heard.

If you are unable to testify at the roundtable, written statements are encouraged and will be made a part of the official record CoPies of written statements should be submitted to the Committee on Economic Development, Council of the District of Columbia, Suite 112 of the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20004.

Council of the District of Columbia Committee on Economic Development 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20004

Public Hearing Agenda and Witness List

COUNCILMEMBER MURIEL BOWSER, CHAIRPERSON COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ANNOUNCES A PUBLIC HEARING

On

Bill 20-563, the "District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Study Act of 2013"

FEBRUARY 25, 2014

ROOM120 lO:OOA.M.

JOHN A. WILSON BUILDING

1350 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, N.W.

I. CALL TO ORDER

II. OPENING STATEMENT

Ill. WITNESSES

Witness List

Public Witnesses 1. Ronald Dixon, Public Witness 2. Brian Flahaven, Chair, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6B 3. Rose I-Iarper, Public Witness 4. john Ray, Partner, Manatt Phelps & Phillips 5. Jeffrey Schaeffer, Principal, Liberty Limited Partnership LLC 6. William Conway, President and CEO, Sharcon Management & Development 7. D.L. "Corky" Calhoun, Vice President of Marketing, Capitol Petroleum 8. Ben Webne, HGA Architects 9. "Gigi" Ransom, Public Witness

Government Witnesses 1. Greg O'Dell, President and CEO, Events DC

IV. ADJOURNMENT

Testimony

By

Brian Flahaven',

Chair, Advisory Neighborhood Commission GB

Commissioner, ANC GB09

Testimony on behalf of ANC GB

Before the

Committee on Economic Development

B20-5G3, District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex

Feasibility Study Act of 2013

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

10:00 am

i Contact- 202-744-1854, brianf6b09@anc:6b.org

Good morning Madam Chair and members of the Committee on Economic

Development. My name is Brian Flahaven, and I serve as chair of Advisory

Neighborhood Commission 6B. My single member district, 6B09, lies in Hill East

and is located immediately west of the Hill East Waterfront, also known as

Reservation 13. My district also includes Barney Circle, the Historic Congressional

Cemetery, and the Eastern Branch Building.

I'm here today to express ANC 6B's strong opposition to Bill 20-563, the District of

Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Study Act of 2013. I'm

testifying on behalf of ANC 6B, which approved my testimony 8-0 during its

February 11, 2014 meeting with a quorum present.

As you know, B20-563 requires the Mayor to conduct a study to determine the

"economic feasibility, economic impact and costs" of developing a new 100,000

seat superdome, indoor waterpark, soundstage, PGA-level golf course and hotel

zone at the RFI< Stadium, DC Armory and Langston Golf Course sites. If enacted,

the bill requires the study to be completed by Feb. 15, 2015.

While we oppose this bill for a number of reasons, let me start with a point on

which we and the bill's co-sponsors do agree: there should be a comprehensive

study on future uses for the RFK Stadium site, 190-acres that encompass RFK

Stadium, the DC Armory, the Maloof Skate Park and surface parking lots.

However, ANC 68 believes that the best approach to determining future uses at

the RFK Stadium site is a community planning process that begins with a blank

slate. This is the strategy used by the city and community to develop the master

plan for Reservation 13, the 67-acre parcel of land that lies immediately to the

south of the RFK site.

As you may know, when Mayor Gray announced plans to move DC United to a

new stadium in Southwest, he also directed Events DC1 the city's convention and

stadium authority, to oversee a study on future uses of the site. While we are

concerned that Events DC will only consider uses for the site that involve a new

stadium, at least they are starting with a relatively blank slate and plan to engage

the community.

2

Unfortunately, instead of starting with a blank slate, the 6 co-introducers of 820-

563 have begun with the conventional wisdom that a new stadium is the best

future use for the site - and then proceeded to surround the new stadium with

random pet projects that will add little to no value to our neighborhood and the

city as a whole. Our commission and community were not asked by the

councilmembers to weigh in on the bill, nor were we engaged by them prior to

the its introduction. This is but one of ANC68's many objections to 820-563-

seven in total-that I am here to share with this committee.

As I've noted, our number one concern is the lack of community engagement in

both the drafting of the bill and that envisioned during the period of the feasibility

study.

Number two - the bill is duplicative. As I mentioned, Mayor Gray has already

asked Events DC to conduct a study of future uses for the site. Why should DC's

hardworking taxpayers foot the bill for a second study before the first has even

begun?

Number three - the proposed complex envisioned in the bill does not appear to

be well-planned. Why would we build more than 1,000 new hotel rooms for a

stadium that would be primarily used for 10 football games a year? If the idea is

to hold more than sporting events at the complex, aren't we competing with our

own taxpayer-funded convention center which is still struggling to attract events?

What happens to the DC National Guard when the Armory is turned into a

soundstage? Where would the hotels, housing and retail be built since most of

the RFK Stadium site sits on a floodplain and, under federal lease terms, must be

used for stadium or recreational use? Why prioritize national, corporate

restaurant chains and businesses over local, independent DC-owned businesses?

These are just a few of a long list of questions that suggest a lack of planning in

drafting the bill.

Number four-the city does not need to fund a study to determine that this plan

is not feasible. The proposed complex would cost billions in taxpayer dollars with

little return to the city. At most, the proposed superdome would host 10-15

events annually. You can't host the Final Four and Superbowl every year- and a

3

new football stadium is not going to attract the hotels and retail envisioned in the

plan.

Number five - the complex lacks neighborhood-serving uses. ANC 68 believes that

the RFK site should include uses that serve both visitors and residents. The

sponsors in the bill seem more interested in meeting the needs of professional

athletes and tourists with their proposed complex.

Number six -- the Anacostia waterfront appears to be an afterthought in the plan.

Any development on the site should work to connect the surrounding

neighborhood to the waterfront, not act as a barrier.

And finally - we are concerned that the real purpose of the bill and study is to

delay any positive development on the RFK site. For example, we are eager to see

the wasteful RFK surface parking lots turned into something useful, like

recreational fields. If this study moves forward, city officials working to preserve

the parking lots for a future stadium will use it as an excuse to block any

meaningful development in the short term.

For these reasons, we ask the committee to oppose 820-563. Let's work together

on a real, feasible study for the RFK site- one that involves the community and

begins with a blank slate.

Thank you and I'd be happy to answer any questions.

4

THEG ruASS CEIL1NG 1NC

TM

The Grass Ceiling, Inc. P.O. Bo.-.:: 5874

Washington, D.C. 20016 Phone: (202) 966-5622

Fax: (202) 966-5623 En1ail: gra.s;;c ti aol.c:_o_rn

~~~\·\~_Jh_QgI(lS$.C.P_iling cgm

South African Office: #47 St Patrick Rood

Houghton 2040 South Africa Phone: 011-21-11-274-6560

February 25, 2014

TO: Chairwoman Bowser and Members of the Economic Development Committee

FR: Rose Harper, CEO The Grass Ceiling, Inc.

REF: Testimony Bill #20-563 District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex

In support of my testimony this morning, please find the attached documents for your information and review:

• Written Testimony • Bio - Rose Harper -The Grass Ceiling • Rose Harper- Golf Industry Credentials

Rose Harper ashington,

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Testimony Ref: - Bill 20-563 District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of2013

Good Morning Chairwoman Bowser ru1d other distinguished members of t11e

Economic Development Committee.

I am Rose Harper, a native Washingtonian. I am Fom1der and P:Iincipal of T'he Grass

Ceiling, Inc. established in 1995, as a global business empower1nent firm that uses the

gatne of golf as a platfonn to help level the playing-field for wo1nen and minorities

with their inale counterpa11's in the business world, and educates executives on the

value of golf as a part of an overall business strategy. I am a Subject Matter Expert

and consultant to corporations, individuals, educational institutions, natio11al and

international golf events, cities and coru1tries on the business of golf. I am a fonner

inanager (for more than two decades) of professional golfers on the PGA tour,

Prodltcer/Director of major golf touma1nents arotmd the globe, and an avid ainateur

golfer. Most importantly, in 1980, wider the auspices of a contract with the U.S.

Departinent of the Interior, I became the first Afi:ican American woman to manage the

historical Langston Golf Course, producing many major golf events and hosting

national celebrities and political figures. As General Manager, my responsibilities

included manage1nent of the course, a driving range, cltibl1ouse, bar/restaurant, retail

shop, and supervision of the greens superintendent and grounds crew.

I appreciate the opportunity to testify on Bill 20-563, District of Columbia Sports

and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of 2013. My testiinony will

specifically address the portion of the bill that requires the Mayor to conduct a

feasibility study with regard to the historical Langston Golf Course.

1

In 1990 at the behest of the Bany administration, I conducted a specific feasibility

shtdy as it pertained to the Robert F. Kennedy Stadiwn and the historical Langston

Golf Course. The feasibility study and redesign plans for tl1e historical Langston Golf

Course was submitted to the Executive Office of the Mayor.

Tl1e feasibility study and redesign plans are relevant today. The inajor public golf

courses, such as Pebble Beach built in 1919, Pinehurst 1898, Tory Pines 1930 and

Bethpage 1930 were designed over 100 years ago and those course designs still

endure and attract the best professional and amateur golfers in the world. Further, the

feasibility study and redesign plans provide the answers to tl1e Council's questions

sought in this bill. Specifically, turning to section 6 of the bill, the feasibility study

and redesign plans assess acquiring ownership of Langston GolfCotrrse and the

econonric feasibility, econo1nic impact, and costs of redesigning Langston and

address subsections (1) through (15).

There is certainly an economic benefit to be gained through the redesign ofTl1e

Langston Golf Course. It will create many diverse jobs in the golf industry. Some of

tl1e jobs will require specialized training through a PGA golf inanagement program

sttch as the one at the University ofMmyland, Eastern Shore. There are many

specialized training programs for developing and maintaining a facility to qualify to

host PGA and LPGA championship events. Local colleges and universities may seek

to en11ance their curriculum with these programs. Local youth will have the

opportunity to become Directors of Golf,. Class A Sl1perintendents, Merchandise

Managers, Hospitality, Accounting, and many other job opportunities.

High schools, colleges and universities would have a first class facility to train yo1mg

people, therefore, encouraging the development of more golf teams in our area. More

golfers in our area would be a major support wit11 title 9 requirements, as well

providing valuable golf scholarships to HBCU' s and Ivy League schools. Golf

scholarships (among minorities) are the most underutilized of all sports scholarships.

2

Wasl1ington, DC is in a seasonal golfterritozy, generally ranging from Marcl1 to

October. As a result, the redesign 1nust include facilities that will generate revenue

during the off.season, such as first class clubhouse with tneeting facilities, fine dining

and catering services. 111e clubl1ouse wotdd 11ost community and civic activities,

business meetings, receptions and other social events.

A redesigned Langston would draw many first class tournaments. 'fournaments are

held every week on the PGA, LPGA, web.com and syinetra tours. There should be a

balance between holding professional and amateur tournaments and allowing t11e

public ample tiine to play golf at a redesigned Langston.

We must re1nember the history of The Langston Golf Course, why it was built in the

first place and why it should always remain a p11blic course with affordable green fees

for the local residents and seniors. Langston was built so that Afiican A1nericans

o play golf when they were not all owed to play at East -could have

Poto1nac (a public facility) Golf courses because of se&l"fegation.

I thank you for the opportunity to testify on behalf of this important bill, and I run

available to answer any questions.

3

THE GRASS CEILING INC.

Rose Harper

Rose Harper is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, lecturer, adjunct professor, author, global events planner, contributing writer to golf publications, subject matter expert (SME) in the business of the golf industry, and passionate golfer. The recipient of countless awards for her lifetime achievements in the field of sports development, and business, she has established herself as an internationally renowned consultant in sports and special events management to U.S. presidents, royalty, and heads of state, ambassadors, celebrities and fortune 500 CEOs.

Her contributions to golf include founding_the PGA Tour Wives Association, initiating the Golf Digest Minority Golf Summit, reformatting the PGA player credentials, establishing a minority joint venture golf course design team (Rose Harper, Gary Player & Arnold Palmer) to provide a golf feasibility study for the Nation's Capital, developing a documentary on the history of African Americans in Golf, being the first person of color to operate and manage a full concession 18 hole golf complex for the U.S. Department of the Interior, organizing the first multi-racial sporting event in the history of South Africa, being certified by the PGA of America as a Player Manager and being a U.S. Delegate to the Seoul Olympics.

She has served on many boards and commissions, including the D.C. Baseball Commission and has chaired the 2.5 billion dollar D.C. Retirement Board. She was honored in 2006 by the PGA of America as a founding member of the PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship, and in 2009 she was inducted into the DC Hall of Fame receiving their Sports Legacy Award. In 2013 she was the first female to receive The Sam Lacey Pioneer Award.

She has received Executive certificates from the following universities: The Emerging Trustees Congress, New Orleans, and Institute for Fiduciary Education, Yale University; Finance, Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania; National Conference on Banking; International Protocol Association and Business Administration, Howard University. She has served as an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Howard University.

One of the most important visionary women in the world of golf, Rose Harper has parlayed 30 years of exposure and experience in the sports management and special events industry to build a successful business that provides leadership training to other professionals. Ms. Harper founded The Grass Ceiling, Inc. in 1995, as a business empowerment firm that specializes in using the game of golf as a platform to help level the playing-field for women and minorities with their counterparts in the business and academic worlds. In her seminars, she demonstrates how the game of golf provides a neutral zone to promote effective communication and positive bonding between professionals.

Rose Harper-GOLF INDUSTRY CREDENTIALS

• Commissioned by the District of Columbia Executive Office of the Mayor, to

conduct a Feasibility Study for the Historical Langston Golf Course in conjunction

with the Robert F. Kennedy Stadium complex.

• Commissioned by the Prime Minister of Bermuda to provide a Feasibility Study

of all of their golf courses (public/private) to aide in securing PGA events in the

country.

• First woman and person of color to be given a full Management Concessions

contract under the Department of Interior to manage the Historical Langston

Golf Course.

• Produced and directed the first National Celebrity Golf Tournament at Langston

Golf Course, bringing in PGA professionals and national celebrities such as Lee

Trevino, Calvin Peete, Bruce Devlin, Lee Elder, Isa loki, Bob Hope, Greg Morris,

Bill Russell, Keeter Betts, Sam Jones, Johnny Mathis, and many others.

• Co-Founder of The National Black College Golf Championships (now known as

The Professional Golfers Association (PGA} Minority Collegiate Golf

Championships

• First woman to host a major press conference at the Augusta National Golf Club

during Masters week

• Negotiated the first International golf contracts for African American

professional golfers on the PGA tour

• Secured educational credentials for Lee Elder and Calvin Peete to assure their

participation as the first African Americans on the prestigious PGA's US Ryder

Cup teams

• Personally invited by President Gerald Ford to work directly with his Chief of

Staff to organize his annual golf celebrity tournaments in Vail Colorado, for more

than 10 years.

• Served on the board of the Bing Crosby National Golf Tournament for over a

decade, securing women and minorities for the event, such as Althea Gibson, Bill

Russell, Johnny Mathis, and Michael Jordon

1

• Participated in The Bing Crosby National Golf Tournament as a Celebrity, and,

corporate participant and with Sara Lee corporate golfing partner Bill Caldwell

for more than 15 years, winning over half of a million dollars for our charities

around the country, including Washington DC.

• Invited by King Mwatsi of Swaziland- Southern Africa to review and study their

golf facilities for possible major golf tournaments.

• Worked for five years with Lincoln Werden, Sports Editor of the New York Times

and the Consulate General of Morocco to arrange special golf matches where

PGA professionals played with King behind the Paface Walls.

• Invited by President Gerald Ford to arrange private golf outing with his friends

while in Washington, DC

• Secured President Gerald Ford's participation in my Annual Celebrity Golf

tournament, where I worked for months behind the scenes with the Chief

Executive's security and advance crews

• Appointed a White South African male (Deputy Ambassador SA Embassy) and an

African American female (Legal Counsel for Congressman Rangel) to co-chair

my Press Room during the annual golf tournament to bridge the South African

Apartheid gap.

• Started the first Youth Golf Program in the Washington, DC area at the Langston

Golf Course.

• Recognized by the PGA as an official Player/Manager and certified Tournament

Director, meeting all size standards for producing major golf events.

• Secured permanent tour credentials for PGA players and their wives

• Co-founded the Professional Golfers Wives Association { PGWA)

• Published The Golfers Cookbook includes recipes and anecdotes from famous

golfers on the PGA tour.

• Sponsored On the Job training programs for Historically Black Colleges &

Universities at their annual golf tournaments

• Recognized by President George Bush, Sr. during his daily Press Briefings for our

Sports Management & Instructional lnstitute 1s work with youth in Washington,

DC and the Department of labor programs

2

Global/Political

• First African American Delegate to the 1988 SEOUL Olympic Games, by special

invitation of the host country- took an African American delegation of

10, including college and high school youth, an NBC news crew member and a

college professor.

• Developed a stellar Olympic program with our senior staff that is still being

modeled and taught at George Washington University, in Washington, DC.

• Hosted twelve female Ambassadors convened by their peer, Ambassador Shelia

Sisulu with Kathryn Crosby to launch The Art of the Deal: Golf Access to Success

empowerment workshop/seminars.

• At the Invitation of President's Ford, Reagan, and Bus,- attended White House

State Dinners, special parties, personal visits to the Oval Office, and hosted the

PGA wives with President and Mrs. Ford

• Organized the historical appearances for professional golfer Lee Elder to attend

the First Multiracial sporting event in the history of South Africa, The South

African PGA

• Led more than 10 delegations to South Africa to meet with Parliament and other

dignitaries including the legendary ANC leader-Walter Sisulu

• Invited by the South African Ambassador to the US to attend the Conference on

Danish South Africa /Co Operation Copenhagen in Copenhagen, Denmark with

Deputy President of South Africa, Tibo Mbeki, and my South African partner

Or.Peter Matseke.

3

Statement of JohJ.1 Ray before

Con1mittee on Econo1nic Develop1ne11t on

DC Spo1ts and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of2014 (Bill 20-563) Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Good morning, Chairperson Bowser, other Counci!ine1nbers and staff '!'his is a very

i1nportant hearing. and I believe its importance should ha\'C brought forth an even greater

number ofbltsinesspersons, civic leaders at1djust plain citizens to share their vie\VS and their

co1nn1ents on Bill 20-563.

I appear here today to urge this Com1nittee and ultimately the City Council to approve

Bill-20 563, v.1hich \Vould require a study to be conducted to determine the feasibility oftl1e

acql1isition and development of the RFK Stadium, tl1c Stadium-Armory and the Langston Golf

Course into a Domed Stadiun1 Complex, an 18-hole PGA Chmnpionsl1ip Golf Course, a M1liti-

Media Soundstage and other business establishn1enls.

Like a business enterprise, a City ca1111ot rest on and settle for what it is today, but what it

will be to1no1Tow. And, in no area ofpl1blic policy is this mode oftl1inking more important for

public officials than in the areas of creating more jobs and more oppottunities for their citizens

and for n1aintaining a stable and an expanding tax base for the governn1cnt 's treasury.

And no n1attcr what American City's econo1nic base is being discussed, the most

important thing is for public officials to recognize what are the important and critical economic

strengths of the City being discussed.

Most natio11al and inte1national cities have their own well-know economic strengths -

econon1ic cl1aracteristics. For example, when one thinks of New Yorlc, he or she sees the

financial capital of the free \vorld, a great City of touris1n, a place of entertainment and of fine

restaltrants and the gartnent industry. Whe11 one thinks of Los Angeles, he or she sees

Hollywood, fihn and 111usic production and tourisn1. \Vhen one thinks of Detroit, he or she sees

lhe alltomohile industry and the supporting al1to parts industry. When one thinks of Miami, l1e or

she sees vacationers and beacl1es. Wl1en one thinks of Washingto11, DC, he or she sees the

federal goverrunent, tourism, the service industry, restaurants and entertainment.

In tern1s of the District's eco11omic gro\vth, the point I \Vant to make is that the District

cannot and \vi\l not be New York City, Detroit or Miami, and these cities \Viii not be

Wasl1ington_ DC. ·rhe second point is that in a City's efforts to create more jobs, more

busi11ess opportunities, maintaining and increasing its reven1te base, it mtist first

look to its economic strengths. Bill 20-563 looks directly to the strengths of the District's

econo1ny. It attempts to build on those aspects of our natio11al ccono1ny and the international

economy that the District is best kno\V for and is part of the economic fo11ndation that creates

jobs for our citizens and revenue for our treasury.

A sporti11g cotnplcx that is designed and constructed to operated 12 months a year along

with the supporting amenities has the potential of producing many business opportu11ities, many

jobs and 1n1tch t1eeded revcntLe for the District. I-Iovvever, it cannot be just another don1ed­

stadium sports complex Rather, it and its supporting amenities have to be uniquely designed and

constructed for n1ulti-uses. It 11as to be a local, a national and an inte111ational attraction.

In additional the study cannot view such a proposed developme11t project in isolation. It

must be viewed in the larger context of the District's develop111ent plans for Reservation 13, for

Be11ning Road betvveen Maryland and Minnesota A venues and for New York A venue and

Bladensburg Road to Maryland Avenue and II Street Northeast. It is tl1ese kind of large

dcv·elopment possibilities that oITer the District tl1e opportunities to spearhead developments that

2

\\.'ill strengthen its traditional economic base and at the same ti1ne move into new areas, such as

the new and de\reloping technologies of the 21 Century.

The District go\rernn1ent has to becon1e a leader and not a follo\ver in the few large scale

developn1ent opportunities t11at are left in the District to ensure that jobs, small businesses and

affordable housing al'e being created, to ensure that Project Labor Agreements are being e11tercd

to provide clcccnt v.1ages for workers, to enst1re tl1at labor and developers are creating job training

progra1ns and to ensure that they are develop1nent projects that strengthen our competitive

position v.1ith our neighbors Maryland and Virgi11ia.

And, we cannot ignore the fact that ot1r neighbors T\tiaryland and Virginia are going

directly at those parts of the District's economic base (Federal government facilities, t01Jrism,

service industry, etc) that arc a11d will continue the heart of our economic base, unless we go to

sleep at the s\.vitch.

To prevent development like Harbor Place in Prince George's County from stealing n1ore

and tnore tax dotlars from t11e District's coffers by luring ot1r local resident and tourists to that

ven11e, \Ne have to be smart and continue to create 1nore and n1ore designations i11 tl1e District that

will attract residents and visitors. We now have GeorgetO\Vn, U Street, and t11e Verizon Center

area that \Ve can truly call destination ven11es. In the fut11re New York and F'lorida Aven11es

Northeast, Ney.,.· York Avenue ai1d Bladensburg Road Northeast, the Sot1thwest Water Front and,

yes, I believe the RFK Stadittm and sun·ounding areas l1ave the possibility of becoming a

destination venue for residents and for visitors.

Madam C2hairperson, Bill 20-563 mandates a study to detc1n1ine if ce11ain economic

initiatives on specific sites are feasible, if they make eco11omic sense. There may be other

initiatives that should be included in the study, b11t it is sound policy to take a lool( at tl1is

3

valuable real estate and see if the District can make it more productive for our resident, our

visitors and the District.

'fhank yolt for the opportunity to share 1ny views.

202622990 I DRAFT 212511-19 l-1 A:vl

4

Testimony of William Conway

On

Bill 20-563, the "District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of 2013"

Before the

Committee on Economic Development

February 25, 2014

Testimony of William Conway Bill 20-563, the "District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of 2014"

Committee on Economic Development February 25, 2014

Good Morning, Councilmember Bowser; members of the Committee on Economic Development; attending Counci!members and staff. l am William Conway, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sharcon Hotel Management and Development Company. Our hotel ownership and management includes the Fairfield Inn and Suites; and the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites on the corner of New York Avenue, and Bladensburg Road, NE, Washington, DC.

Thank you for convening this Public Hearing on Bill 20-573 entitled, the "District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of 2014."

For the record, ! am testifying in support of the subject legislation.

This legislation is visionary from an economic development and sustainability perspective. As you are aware, this country has experienced very challenging economic times; however, we are recovering. The District of Columbia, according to economic data and other relevant profiles, has withstood these times markedly well. However, we must prepare for the future and with that future comes potential challenges and uncertainty. The District is already in a unique position, relative to its taxing authority. Unfortunately, the city cannot tax at source and this directly impacts its ability to raise revenue. The proposed legislation offers creative and realistic opportunities that should be appropriately evaluated to determine their viability.

I recognize that the proposals delineated in the legislation will require significant revenue; therefore, issues of funding and revenue generation are paramount. The legislation requires this very review and analysis to determine that which is feasible. Nationally, governments are exploring diverse ways to implement public private partnerships to achieve outcomes that are in the interest of both sectors. This bill will require that partnership; however, the construct of that partnership will require further examination.

It is important that this review takes into consideration the viability of these projects year-round and not simply seasonal. It appears that the legislation has contemplated this with the mix of proposals offered. This legislation has the potential of significantly increasing tourism revenue, while also enhancing existing sectors, most notably, the film industry which has not reached its full potential.

With my long~term expertise and experience in the hotel industry, ! am particularly interested in the section of the legislation that sets forth a review concerning the establishment of a Hotel Zone to serve the designated projects. I invested in the New York Avenue Corridor in 1994-during a period of time that investments in that area were not popular and deemed by some as not being prudent. My investment in this area was also visionary. While development along this corridor has been delayed, its time is also now. Several major projects are planned for this area with major investinents already committed. The business community will be critical, along with the government, to that development.

This legislation offers additional economic development alternatives. We must think creatively, while also having sound fiscal data to support the ideas that are being generated. The bill represents a step in the right direction because the appropriate resources and expertise wil! be devoted to examining what has been advanced.

I am available to offer my expertise, along with other critical stakeholders in this area. I respectfully request your support for the review that is required, pursuant to the legislation.

Thank you.

Testimony of DL "Corky" Calhoun before the

Committee on Economic Development DC Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of 2014 (Bill 20·563)

Tuesday, February 25, 2014 Room 120@ l 0:00 AM

Introduction

Good morning, Chairperson Bowser, members and staff of the Council. Thank you for holding the hearing on Bill 20·563, "DC Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Act of 2014. My name is Corky Calhoun, Vice President of Marketing, Capitol Petroleum Group· ("CPG"). I am here to speak in support of the legislation. At CPG, I have direct responsibility for the supervision and development of seven (7) Territory Managers as well as management of the business relationship between CPG and the franchise dealers who serve the Washington metropolitan market.

Prior to CPG, I was with ExxonMobil Corporation for thirty (30) years). I joined CPG in 2011. I pause to say to you and this committee when I joined the petroleum industry there were few, if any African-American jobbers, but thanks to the hard work and determination of Joe Mamo, Operation Push and the Reverend Jessie Jackson, the Urban League and others, I was able to leave ExxonMobil and joined not only an African-American owned Company, but one of the largest jobbers in the USA.

l give this introductory statement because it demonstrates the extraordinary possibilities of success in life if you work hard, work smart and have a vision. l speal< to you today from the prospective of a businessperson and also as a former professional athlete. In my younger days, I was a professional NBA basketball player with the LA Lakers and the Portland Trailblazers.

With smart thinking, a clear vision and some risk, (I pause to say that to achieve anything worthwhile in life you have to be willing to take some risk), I believe RFI< Stadium and the surrounding land can be turned into a successful financial venture for the District of Columbia.

Sports Destination DC ·The Nation and Sports Capital of the World

Washington, DC is the Capital of our Nation and the Capital of the free world. Most Americans and many international travelers want to visit Washington, DC. It is by far one of our Nation's great sport venues and has potential to become a "sports destination". Like the Washington Wizards and

the Washington Nationals, the Washington Redskins should be playing their games at a facility in Washington, DC. Preparing a location in the City to be ready in 2027 when the FedEx Field lease expires in Prince George's County makes good sense. The Redskins have a good following all over the Country. If properly designed, the stadium and it supporting elements could become a major sports venue and a tourist attraction. Let me explain.

A Domed Stadium Complex

A domed facility that could be used year round will, undoubtedly, attract all kind of events - sporting and others. Of course, one immediately may think about the Super Bowl, but that even is a minnow in the ocean as to what such a facility in the Nation's Capital could attract. It could attract many other national and international events. In college football, it would not only be an attractive venue for the national championship game, but also for one or more of the bowl games year after year. Large national religious events which often have 50,000-60,000 people attending, large outdoor and indoor concerts, are all potential users. The facility should be built not as a seasonal facility, but a year­around facility.

A Sports Museum

To further enhance the project I would suggest that you get the necessary expert advice and consider having a Sports Museum that would include football, baseball, basketball, tennis and golf. Many people who will never visit "Halls of Fame" in Cooperstown, Canton, Springfield, Newport or St. Augustine will visit the Nation's Capital and this museum could offer a wonderful tour of the past and present of these national and international sports. Visitors could get a taste of what the rich sports history of all the major sports in one facility. This museum could provide exciting, interactive fun and entertainment for kids and adults. It could be a money maker for a private entrepreneur and a tax generator for the District. I also believe that such a museum would attract both national and international visitors. Tennis, golf and basketball are already international sports. Football is slowly making its way onto the international scene. Annually now a football game is played in England, and Commissioner Roger Goodell has talked about expanding the NFL's appeal in the international market. The Buffalo Bills have approval to play a series of pre-season and regular games at Rogers Centre in Toronto. Thus, if done with the right approach, such a museum will be appealing and attractive to both national and international visitors.

A World Class Golf Course

This proposed legislation also calls for the possibility of the Langston Golf Course to be transformed into a world class golf course. This is a great

Page 2

idea. Here, I would like to suggest that the City reach out to Tiger Woods, whom has his own yearly tournament, among other things, to honor veterans. Currently, the tournament is being played at Congressional Country Club's golf course, but it ls my understanding Mr. Woods is looking for a permanent home. It appears that his preference is to hold the tournament in the Nation's Capital. Beyond the financial benefits that that the District would get from the tournament and the enjoyment golf enthusiasts who come to play there year round, this is an opportunity for the City to take an historic African-American Golf Course, where the likes of Lee Elder played, out of the ashes of the dark and on the national and international golf scene.

Amenities and New Economic Activities

A domed sport facility and a PGA standard golf course would demand and require many supporting amenities, such as hotels, restaurants, retail shops and the lil<e. Thus, these establishments would spur new economic activities and create additional revenues for the District. I believe that if such a sports facility, golf course and amenities are planned and constructed properly, with a vision beyond that makes it operational and attractive today, then a sound and reasonable financial development can be planned and completed.

Finally, my Company has considerable investment in the City. For tax year 2013, we paid a combined total of approximately $13.7 million in taxes to the City, from real property, personal property, sales, excise, ballpark fees, unincorporated franchise tax and others'. A large portion of the taxes we paid the District are generated from our investments in the Northeast and Southeast areas of the City. With a year-round landmark sports venue at RFK, CPG and the City will benefit from increased number of customers, and the District will benefit from the number of new jobs and revenues that flow from additional employment and additional taxes.

I urge the Committee and the City Council as a whole to approve this legislation to study the proposed recommendations and others that appear to be a "win-win" proposal. Thank you again for the opportunity to testify and I will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

****''*

1 Motor fuel excise tax - S 11,033, l 52; real property - Sl,682,078; personal property - $111,828; ball park fee -$16,500; unincorporated franchise tax - $872,400.

Page 3

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DC

COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PUBLIC HEARING ON B20-563: THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

COMPLEX FEASIBILITY ACT OF 2014

February 25, 2014

Testimony of Gregory A. O'Dell President and Chief Executive Officer

Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC

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DC Good morning Chairperson Bowser and Members and staff of the Committee on Economic Development. I am Greg O'Dell, president and chief executive officer of the Washington Convention and Sports Authority, also known as Events DC. I am here today to provide you with an update on the activities at the historic Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium and its surrounding campus.

As you know, in 2009, the former Washington Convention Center Authority merged with the DC Sports and Entertainment Commission to form what is now the Washington Convention and Sports Authority. Through the merger, Events DC created one of its core lines of business, our Sports and Entertainment Division, to attract and create top-tier sports, entertainment and cultural events for the District, while also promoting the city as a world­class destination for sports and entertainment. The Sports and Entertainment Division operates and programs the 110-acre RFK campus, including the RFK Stadium, the non-military portions of the DC Armory building, the RFK Festival Grounds and the Maloof Skate Park at RFK Stadium. We also serve as landlord of Nationals Ballpark.

As you are aware, RFK Stadium is one of the District's most iconic assets. Its rich history began in 1958, when the DC Armory Board and the United States Department of the Interior signed a lease for the "District of Columbia Stadium" - the District's first multi-sport facility for both football and baseball. Later, in 1961, the Stadium opened its doors to a crowd of over 36,000 attendees for its first football game, the Washington Redskins versus the New York Giants. In 1969, DC Stadium was renamed Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium to honor the late U.S. Senator and presidential candidate. Since that time, the stadium has been home turf for baseball, football and soccer, not to mention the concerts, ceremonies and other events that have attracted fans and attendees from around the world.

Events DC has worked hard to maintain momentum on the campus, with a focus on generating community and economic benefits for the District, its residents and business owners through world-class programming and special events. In our most recent reporting period, Fiscal Year 2013, we saw an increase in programming on the campus, hosting 73 events with over 663,000 attendees, including a sell-out of the stadium to commemorate the lOOth anniversary of the U.S. Soccer Federation - a match with the U.S. Men's National Team versus Germany. The match made history for RFK as the stadium hosted a record-setting 22nd match with the Men's National T earn, more than any other venue in the world. Overall, in the last three years, we Public Hearing on 820-563 February 25, 2014 Page 1 of 3

Gregory A. O'Dell Events DC

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DC . have seen an attendance increase of more than 22 percent on the campus, in spite of a 10.1 percent drop in attendance for the stadium's tenant, DC United, during the same period.

To maximize the use of the campus and its venues, we book a variety of large- and small-scale sporting and entertainment events, and one area of growth has been specialty endurance sporting events. like the Glow Run SK, the Ridiculous Obstacle Challenge SK, the Rock and Roll USA Marathon and the Vampire SK. just to name a few. We also host the DC Rollergirls flat-track roller derby league at the Armory, which has also been a great venue for nationally televised boxing events, including ESPN's Friday Night Fights and Showtime Championship Boxing, in addition to other large bookings like the Nike World Basketball Festival. In order to increase the use of the stadium beyond the 18 to 20 DC United games we host each year. we created our own annual event, the AT&T Nation's Football Classic, which anchors an entire weekend of HBCU classic activities that take place across the District.

Like any organization, we are always examining the market and planning for our future, and when DC United announced its plans to move to a new stadium in Southwest. we saw an opportunity to analyze and evaluate future uses of the stadium site - uses that would be consistent with both our mission and the long-term lease with the U.S. Department of the Interior. the owners of the land.

Many have posed the question, "What do we do with RFK?" Over the years, we have received several unsolicited proposals to redevelop the site - some that have been interesting and some that have not been economically or programmatically feasible. That is why in November of last year, we issued a Request for Expressions of Interest to conduct a comprehensive, two-phase study of the stadium and the surrounding campus in order to explore a range of viable options that maximize the best and highest use of the site - uses that serve the needs of both visitors and residents. Phase One will examine two options on both a short- and long-term basis, one that will look at programming the campus without the stadium and one that will consider programming under the assumption that the stadium will be retained. For the DC Armory, Phase One of the study will examine the feasibility, cost and ROI derived from any renovations to accommodate short- and long-term uses. Phase Two of the project will consist of project design and development, the development of bid packages and the selection of contractors to implement the desired development plan. Public Hearing on B20~563 February 25, 2014 Page2of3

Gregory A. O'Dell Events DC

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DC . While we have heard of a number of potential uses for the site, we thought it prudent to remain objective, taking a managed, analytical approach to studying the site - one that involves input from key stakeholders, including local and federal regulatory agencies and members of the community. Some of the study's considerations will include Events DC's mission and purposes, the existing lease with the Department of the Interior, legal and policy considerations regarding land ownership and control of the DC Armory, the local and federal regulatory review process, environmental conditions, and traffic and other important elements.

We are currently in the solicitation process and have received a number of responses; we have formed an evaluation panel and expect to have a firm selected by mid-April. We are committed to releasing the results of the study, once completed, and briefing the Council, the Executive and members of the community. We look forward to working with all stakeholders.

Chairperson Bowser, this concludes my testimony. I am happy to answer any questions that you or the Committee Members may have.

Public Hearing on 820-563 February 25, 2014 Page 3 of 3

Gregory A. O'Dell Events DC

From: Erik Donald [mailto:erikdonald@gmail.coml Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 1:27 PM To: Orange, Vincent B. (Council); Bonds, Anita (Council); Evans, Jack (COUNCIL); McDuffie, Kenyan (Council); Bowser, Muriel (Council) Cc: Hawkins, Robert (COUNCIL) Subject: RFK Stadium Bill

Dear cow1cil members,

I am a resident of ward 6, next to RFK. The DC Bill 20-563 is a waste of money for a ridiculous idea: the 100,000 stadium, water park, sound stage, golf course, and hotel zone all in tl1e RFK site. Please stop this bill from contintling ai1d wasting tax payer money. It is not in tl1e best interests of the city. As seen by numerous examples, stadiums have not been profitable for jurisdictions. Especially when our own stadiums still struggle to find acts to fill them. A football stadium that has 10 gan1es a year is not economically beneficial to the city. A waterpark could only be used half the year. Think of feasible plans to increase your tax base by adding residents and services. RFK stadium is valuable land, and extending Capitol Hill for more residents should be your top priority. Things like housing, retail, restaurants, medical, and city services wottld be welcomed by the residents. Please look to the reservation 13 master plan that was adopted by the city council as a guide to what kinds of things I think should be at RFK.

Please don't waste our limited money on studying this, rather spend them studying and promoting feasible ideas that benefit the residents.

Tl1ank you for your time, -Erik

From: Sean Plankey [mailto:sp.olankey@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 1:40 PM To: Bonds, Anita (Council); Orange, Vincent B. (Council); Bowser, Muriel (Council); Hawkins, Robert (COUNOL); McDuffie, Kenyan (Council); Evans, Jack (COUNOL) Cc: Brian Flahaven; darrel@darrel4dc.com Subject: Bill 20-563, the District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Study Act of 2013

Dear Council,

I am a Ward 6 resident and homeowner. I Jive on 17th ST SE, not far from RFK Stadium. I run writing you to ask that you do NOT vvaste our city's dollars or time for a feasibility study regarding Councilmember Orange's proposal for the stadium area.

I have read the proposal and do not think there is 1nuch merit to it. First, as many studies have shown, the tax payer does not actually benefit from funding a stadiutn in the city. In fact, many major new organizations have docutnentcd the losses stadiu1ns bring to cities. Secondly, ifthese develop1nents were a viable solution econo1nic forces would have created a PGA course, soundstage, and nationally recognized dept store already?

Do you not think that national stores do their own research on where they can put stores to make their money? They are publicly traded companies that exist to make money for their shareholders.

I have listened to a lot of politics. Never once have l heard a politician encourage people to shop at chain stores. Never once have I heard stories about chain stores giving back to the locality. What would the damage be to H St, Union Market, and Barracks Row if major chain stores moved in?

PGA golf courses? NYC doesn't have one, neither does Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, or LA.

These cities aren't kno\vn for \Valer parks either.

NYC, LA, and Boston don't even have NFL stadiums in them.

I can't understand the logic on how this plan is in any way strategic or makes our great city more prominent. We already are the Nation's Capitol. That's our schtick. We don't need another bombastic shopping mall, stadium, or soundstage to prove ourselves, especially at the cost of my tax dollars. Give me green space, sports fields, better schools, and mom & pop shops. That's why I moved here. If I wanted cookie cutter buildings and chain stores 1 would have bought in Arlington.

Thank you for your ti1ne. I have enclosed links below on studies and articles about how stadiums are a bad investment for cities.

Respectfully,

Sean Plankey & Family 17th St SE

http://w\vw.cato.org/publications/con1mentarv/governn1cntfunded-stadiu1ns-not-worth-pricc-ad1nission http://ideas.time.com/20 13/ 12/06/football-a-\vaste-of-taxpayers-n1onev I http:/ /\VV.'\V. th eat lantic.com/m agazine/archi ve/20 1 3/ I O/how-the-n fl-fleeces-taxpavers/309448/ http://w\vw. Forbes .con1/sites/realspi n/20 13/ l I /22/atlanta-bra ves-1-hapless-taxpayers-fleeced-to-pay- for-their -stadium-Of http://\VW\v.usatodav.com/story/ne\vs/nation-now/20 13/ l 1 /25/stadiun1s-taxpavers/366354 l/

From: Franny Decker [mailto:franny@deckerconsultingdc.com] Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 12:20 PM To: Bowser, Muriel (Council); Bonds, Anita {Council); Evans, Jack (COUNCIL); McDuffie, Kenyan {Council); Orange, Vincent 8. (Council); Hawkins, Robert (COUNCIL) Subject: RFK Stadium Bill - vote NO!

Dear Councilmcmbers, I am writing to yot1 as a citizen of DC and a neighbor ofRFK Stadium. I strongly urge you to

vote NO to Bill 20-563 on the feasibility ofRFK Stadium. Sadly, since the Redskins left the stadiun1 has deteriorated to a shell of its former self. It is rarely used and a huge waste of space and taxpayer dollars. I hope you will consider my feelings and those of my fellow neighbors who live near this potential gold mine for the city.

One old stadium does not need to be replaced with a new stadium. Its time to get real and understand that the Redskins are not going to come back and we must use this riverfront property to its fullest potential. Look at Pittsburgh as an exmnple. They took a similarly unused/dilapidated track of river front property m1d through development of condos, townhouses, shopping, restaurants and movie theaters have turned it into one of the hippest areas of town ... the Southside. We could l1ave that too!

Please vote no 011 this bill and allow tl1e land to be developed for more commercial, consistent and neighborhood friendly uses. Why do we need an indoor waterpark m1d soundstage anyway? Lets get the housing a jobs we really 11eed!

Sincerely, F. Decker 14th PL & Constitution

From: Macqueen_CNTR, Warren S [mailto:Warren.Macqueen@dodijs.mill Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 1:48 PM To: Hawkins, Robert (COUNCIL) Subject: Bill 20-563

I am a current resident of Ward 5 with a cl1ild who participates in several Capitol Hill activities. I am writing to ask t11at you vote down Bill 20-563, the District ofColun1bia Sports and Entertain1nent Complex Feasibility Study Act of2013. This Bill is absurd because it has no roots in the con1munities that live, work and play in the vicinity of RFK Stadium. Moreover, it directly contravenes some of the needs and hopes of those comn1unities. No one has asked for a 0 st1perdome" or a "PG A-level golf course." Thoughtful and appropriate District legislation for local uses of property, as always, best arises from collaboration between the Council, the Executive and the actually impacted communities. Rather, Bill 20-563 is so incoherent and random that it smells of patronage and handouts. Of secret, backroom deals of an older era that I would hope this Cotmcil is working to put behind it rather than embrace. Sincerely, Scotte

W. Scotte MacQueen, PMP Associate ICC-B PMO Project Manager

Intelligence Community Campus-Bethesda (ICC-B) Program Management Office (PMO) EB-1-107 A-06 o 301.227.5856 m 202.378.6214 **new office line** warren.macqueen@dodiis.mil smacqueen@markonsolutions.com

marko~ S-J.\JtiOtlS

From: Emily Robinson [mailto:robinson.emily@.g1nail.com] Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 5:12 PM To: Bowser, Muriel (Council); Bonds, Anita (Council); Evans, Jack (COUNCIL); McDuffie, Kenyan (Council); Orange, Vincent B. (Council); Hawkins, Robert (COUNCIL) Subject: Please do not support RFK Stadium study bill

Dear men1bers of the Com1nittee for Economic Development,

As a Ward 7 neighbor to t11e RFK stadium site, I am urging you to not support the absurd B20-563 bill.

Neighborhood and corn1nunity groups have already come together to develop a strong vision to transform the sea of asphalt that is the RFK northern lot -- into a green, usable parkland that cm1 bring mt1ch needed recreational amenities along the Anacostia River. "fhe vision includes sports playing fields, walk/bike paths, an improved farmer's market area, and other features tl1at will connect Wards 5, 6 and 7 while reducing stormwater pollution. As far as the area south ofRFK, there is already an approved master plan in place that neighbors worked on together for years.

The RFK study biii on the other hand, involves a superdome, indoor waterpark, hotel zone, soundstage, and other ridiculous projects that will do nothing for the neighborl1ood and city. It was a surprise to all of us in the neighborhood and does not involve any comrn11nity input The wacky assortn1ent of projects are laugl1able - an indoor waterpark? Hundreds upon hundreds of hotel rooms for a stadium that only hosts 10 games per year? And the stores, l1otels, bars, and restaurants mentioned in the bill are all supposed to be "nationally recognized" - in other words, a complex with a b11nch of chain stores that will sipl1on 1noney out of otir community.

We are interested in locally-owned and operated businesses that will keep our dollars in DC, helping our community instead of filling the pockets of national chain executives. We are interested in ecologically sound, enjoyable green space in our community. We are interested in an improved farmer's n1arket and community recreation amenities that will help neighbors of all ages be healt11y and happy.

Please do i1ot spend taxpayer dollars to study an overblown plan for RFK that is not feasible and no one wants anyway.

Respectfully submitted for the record,

Emily Robinson

Ward 7 Neighbor

428 21st Street NE

Dear Councilmembers Bowser, Bonds, Orange and McDuffie,

I am -writing today to express my strong opposition to the District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Study Act of2013 (Bill 20-563) and to encot1rage the committee to oppose this bill and remove it from consideration.

B20-563 did not involve or incorporate a11y kind of community input. Tl1e people of Ward 7 and of the st11rounding neighborhoods, both of which I am part of, were never consulted. And in fact, the people of both Ward 7 and the surrounding neighborhoods have consistently voiced very strong opposition to plans very much like t11ese for a larger football stadium and all of the other theme-park like elen1ents of this bill.

I encourage all of you and the full council to instead support existing plans which have already been developed wl1ich actually benefit the people oftl1e city. There has been a plan in place for Reservation 13 for many years, developed with community support, which has still never been implemented. The Capitol Riverside Youth Sports Park is a11 idea which has attracted widespread support both in the community and on the council and is an idea whicl1 would benefit the entire city.

I would like to request that my statement be st1bmitted for the record.

Thank you, Josepl1 Vess Ward 7

CC: CM Yvette Alexa11der, Ward 7

Councilwoman Bowser,

I am a resident of District 6 and am very concerned abol1t the B20-563 proposal to e1nbark on a sports and entertainme11t feasibility study. I have read the proposed list of facilities and am appalled at the lack of local commu11ity concerns and needs represented by this list. I urge a process that involves more directly the people most affected by any development in this area, and t11at seeks development focused more on serving t11e needs and interests of SE residents and less on glitzy, commercially oriented so-called "attractions." Please ensure this statement is submitted to the record.

Thank you.

Frances Hoffmann 1518 D St. SE

From: Liz Gossens [mailto:lgo1018@amail.com] Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 3:39 PM To: Bowser, Muriel (Council) Cc: Hawkins, Robert (COUNCIL) Subject: 820-563: RFK Feasibility Study

Council member Bowser,

I am e-mailing you today to indicate my concerns with council men1ber Orange's proposed RFK Stadium Study Bill.

While I agree that we could use the space around RFK more effectively (it is waterfront, and beatitiful!), I fervently believe his plans for hotels, golf course, water park, etc ... are *wrong* for that neighborhood, and may actually be wrong for DC!

I know l1is plans were not inade with any neighborhood involvement, and I can think of nmnerous ways to spend that rno11ey, instead of conducting a feasibility study.

Hasn't DC wasted enough money already? This city could be so amazing - I an1 DC born and raised and 11ave so much pride for my hometown. But instead, we are laugl1ed at by other cities for the massive failures of our local government.

Please, please don't let this bill go througl1. It's a complete waste of money and I wish this time had been spend considering how to better our public schools, instead of on this ridiculous scheme.

Ms. Bowser, in an election year, all eyes are 011 our council and mayoral candidates.

Tl1anks,

Liz

Dear Council Members,

I have lived on Capitol Hill, within one mile from RFK Stadium, for almost 30 years. Bill 20-563, the District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment Complex Feasibility Study Act of 2013, as proposed, is absurd for many reasons, but primarily because what is being proposed has no roots in the communities, and is not of high priority to us that live, work, and play in the vicinity of RFK Stadium. As such, I am writing to request that you oppose Bill 20-563. What is needed instead is a proposal for the RFK complex that addresses the needs of DC citizens, and they themselves articulate.

As written, what is being proposed does nothing to serve the needs of the Capitol Hill community, or in fact, the priority needs of DC residents. A 100,000 seat superdome, indoor waterpark, soundstage, PGA-level golf course and hotel zone are not included in those needs. Thoughtful and appropriate District legislation for local uses of property, as always, best arises from collaboration between the Council, the Executive and the actually impacted communities. Rather, Bill 20-563 is so incoherent and random that it smells of patronage and handouts. Of secret, backroom deals of an older era that I would hope this Council is working to put behind it rather than embrace.

Instead of wasting taxpayer dollars on a poorly thought out study, the DC Council should look to fund realistic future uses for the site - uses that serve both residents and visitors. An example is the Capitol Riverside Youth Sports Park proposal, which aims to turn a portion of the stadium's north parking lots into recreational fields. Not only is this project feasible, it also responds to a critical need for more recreational field space in the city.

I sincerely hope that you vote to not proceed with this poorly conceived expenditure of taxpayer money.

Sincerely,

Michael Godec