Blanco puts ball in Saints court
 

Similar to other story posted, but has more financial specifics:

Blanco puts the ball in Saints' court
Team says it's ready to huddle over new deal
By Bruce Eggler

Gov. Kathleen Blanco's office Thursday gave the Saints final details of the state's proposal for a new financial deal with the team. At the same time, officials began the process of finding the money needed to carry out a new agreement, or at least to fulfill the terms of the state's present deal if a new one is not reached.

The Superdome Commission voted to ask the State Bond Commission to seek proposals from underwriters interested in handling a refinancing of Dome bonds that could free up tens of millions of dollars in a one-time windfall.
http://www.nola.com/news/t-p/capital...6858578300.xml

Blanco puts ball in Saints court
 

Good Post..I read the story..And I got a few things from it..

1 Blanco wants the Saints to be here..for a long time

2 Blanco expects the Saints to help pay for this..and I agree

3 If Benson Doesn\'t take this deal...and try to make it work..make some changes herre and there as he sees fit..but..make an honest effort to help the State along the way, Then I think he is trying to blackmail the State..and they will have no choice but to let him go..

4 Blanco has put down a good overall strategy to get this team to sign...she\'s really doing all she can...

Blanco puts ball in Saints court
 

I think Blanco is covering her bases. I don\'t think she cares one way or another whether the Saints stay or go but has to at least make an effort or she will lose a lot of New Orleans and surrounding votes -- and since Jindal already gave her a good race she has to be a little worried. That said -- if this new deal is her first proposal and is willing to negotiate with Benson than I believe a deal may be made. Its all up to whether Benson and Blanco will negotiate in good faith or if one of them is going to be hard headed

Blanco puts ball in Saints court
 

that\'s the scary part.

Also, I wonder what will come of all that \"25 acres of tailgating\" and \"sports themed mall\" crap that Benson was talking about?? Window dressing?? or a way out??