GumboBC

Statement from Tom Benson on today's meeting with Governor Blanco - June 3, 2004

I enjoyed visiting with Governor Blanco today and having an opportunity to tour her through the new Saints facilities. I expressed to her that the Saints organization strives to be first rate in everything we do and certainly these state of the art facilities are part of that. I would like to express my appreciation to our great fans and supporters throughout the State who have made this possible.

During the course of our meeting Governor Blanco and I had the opportunity to discuss the major State-Saints issues, including the current agreement approved by the legislature in 2002, the Saints standing within the NFL, and the challenges facing both the Saints and the State of Louisiana.

I reiterated to the Governor the many financial commitments which I and the organization have made and the fact that the current contract must be honored. I reminded the Governor that the current agreement was a result of substantial negotiations and was transparent and public.

I also reiterated to Governor Blanco my desire for the Saints to be in New Orleans for the long-term and that we are willing to discuss the long-term plans as they relate to the playing facility. I have instructed my senior staff to work closely with the Governor and her staff to discuss long-term plans beyond the current contract.

The Saints are an important contributor to this great community, both in terms of economic development, community relations and entertainment, and we look forward to continuing these benefits for years to come.

--www.NewOrleansSaints.com--