We'll see who gets out and votes. It's interesting to read all these responses in this thread, but of course the vast majority of you don't live in Ames (or maybe aren't property owners - commercial or residential).
Prior to this thread, all I had heard about the proposed convention was positive reports. However, my only contacts were Ames Chamber of Commerce and ACVB people. They have a greater interest in getting this approved than the average citizen. What I'd like to know is whether or not the Ames Chamber and ACVB claims about drawing more conventions and business hold true? If so, can they cite the additional conventions (with specificity) that they believe are going to come and increase revenues for businesses around Ames? I need some hard data to feel better informed.
I am skeptical given the immense cost of the project and as another poster said, why not just renovate and enlarge Scheman and attach a hotel to it since the hotel aspect is a crucial component being overlooked? Based on my knowledge of construction costs, which is limited, it seems to me Scheman could be renovated and a hotel added for less than the estimate cost.
I will be voting, and will be affected with both a commercial and residential tax hike if it passes, but I have not made up my mind yet. It will be interesting to hear additional arguments come forth in the coming weeks.
