Balsillie would seek public funding for Copps reno

Jim Balsillie will seek public funds to renovate Copps Coliseum if he scores an NHL team for Hamilton. 

The BlackBerry billionaire would foot the bill for initial upgrades, estimated at about $30 million, to get the arena ready for a team. 

But when it comes to a long-term overhaul of the city-owned  facility, which could cost upwards of $150 million, Balsillie would ask Hamilton to “work with the two upper tiers of government to seek infrastructure funding,” said his spokesperson Bill Walker.

The request marks the first time Balsillie has publicly stated he’s looking for government financing. It was previously thought he would bankroll the entire renovation to bring the arena up to NHL standards.  

Mayor Fred Eisenberger said he doesn’t think the request is “out of line” and would likely be positively received. 

“I do know there is interest from other levels of government to look at this,” he said, noting the government has helped other cities fund pro sports facilities.