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Old Posted Apr 27, 2012, 7:43 PM
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Join Date: Mar 2004
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Five HECFI bidders still in the game

http://www.thespec.com/news/local/ar...ll-in-the-game

Councillors have directed staff and KPMG to enter discussions with five potential operators to run HECFI facilities.

The decision goes against consultant recommendation to narrow negotiations down to two large entertainment groups.

Councillors heard a presentation by KPMG Friday about six bidders’ proposals for running Hamilton Place, Copps Coliseum and the Hamilton Convention Centre.

KPMG proposed beginning discussions with Global Spectrum/Live Nation and SMG/ Forum Equity out of the proponents who submitted a private-management plan.

The city has spent about $329,000 on consulting costs to date.

Councillors also approved a motion to have proponents not speak to media during the bidding process.

Live Nation is the largest concert promoter in the world and Global Spectrum manages many convention centres and sports venues around the world, including a new facility at the former Maple Leaf Gardens site in Toronto.

SMG manages numerous arenas, including two NHL venues. Forum Equity is a Toronto-based development firm.

The other bidders, Carmen’s Group, Sonic Unyon, Vrancor Group and AEG/Katz Group, only want to manage one of the three venues.

KPMG argued the larger proponents have more “management depth,” better NHL relocation prospects, and extensive industry relationships, but indicate there is no single clear-cut, leading bidder.

According to a report compiled by the consultants, proposals were ranked as follows: SMG/Forum Equity, Global Spectrum/Live Nation, AEG/Katz Group, Carmen’s Group, Vrancor Group and Sonic Unyon.

Almost a year ago, council dissolved the arms-length HECFI board and fired CEO Duncan Gillepsie to form a committee of councillors to find a private company to purchase, lease or manage all of any of the three facilities.
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