North Bay politicians were studying their financial options on whether to jump on board the community's efforts to keep their Ontario Hockey League franchise from being transferred to Michigan.
The money-losing Centennials were sold to a Saginaw businessman for $2 million (US) by North Bay's Tom Thomson and Bill Finnis, who claim dwindling attendance in recent years lead to $224,000 in losses last season. Thomson and Finnis had attempted to convince the city to reduce arena rent and fees, and give them management of concession fees.
A local campaign comprised of private investors led by Ray Irwin raised $2.1 million (Cdn) in early January, while spearheading a season ticket drive of 2,500. They hope to convince the league's board of governors to keep the franchise in North Bay when they meet in Ottawa Jan. 15 to approve the sale.
