As a business owner, Eastsider and, of course, a sports fan, I wanted to applaud the recent developments regarding the possible return of the Seattle Supersonics.  And not only show appreciation for the unprecedented deal offered by Chris Hansen and ArenaCo, but also thank the Eastside elected representatives who framed the discussion and got us closer to the deal we have in front of us today.

As a business owner, I am amazed at the flexibility and grateful for the extreme generosity of Chris Hansen and ArenaCo partners Pete and Erik Nordstrom and Steve Ballmer. With 34 business locations in several states and being an avid sports fan, I have never seen an agreement that has so little risk for taxpayers like you and me. In fact, with the exception of a possible $10 million to $20 million for traffic and pedestrian infrastructure (which would be covered by arena revenues), we are only being asked to use the line of credit of Seattle and King County. And Hansen and ArenaCo are guaranteeing the payments.

In this economy, the use of public funds in the city, county and state is paramount for those who are underserved. Having grown up from challenged beginnings, I have been there. Extravagant uses of public funds in the past have been frustrating to me, but this situation is different. This is a public-private partnership where the risk is borne and guaranteed by the owners. Hansen is taking a sizable risk for the greater good of our community. He is fulfilling the dreams of so many with the prospect of the NBA returning to Seattle, where it belongs.

In tandem with the flexibility of ArenaCo, I want to thank King County Council members Jane Hague and Kathy Lambert. From the beginning, they framed the discussion and succeeded in enhancing the agreement to protect the taxpayers, minimize financial risk, address transportation access and freight mobility issues and the WNBA and tenants of the Key Arena. In addition, the environmental, economic impact analysis and other requirements leave open the possibility of other locations. And, finally, after two previous stadiums, they helped mandate protections of our deep water port and international trading partners.

Lambert and Hague were also instrumental in recent legislation that would use the same financing mechanism that may be utilized for this arena proposal for other sports, civic and arts facilities. This could be an option for the proposed Tateuchi Center in Bellevue along with other needed venues.

Please join me in appreciating the efforts of the proposed owners and our forward-thinking representatives, their efforts should be applauded.

Dwayne Clark, CEO, Aegis Living, Redmond