We may be parsing words on that point. I stated no "tax increases", which is not to be confused with no "tax dollars". I believe there exists within most cities enough funds to set aside some dollars to get such a deal going (seed money).This money could come from general funds and not require a new tax. The City would still need to be involved to oversee the design, location, conduct negotiations, etc.
The suggestion on the team paying for the up keep is a good one.
One stadium/city deal that got my goat is Bank One Ball Park (BOB) in Phoenix. The city of Phoenix passed a law that set a tax on car rentals at Phoenix airport to pay for at least a portion of the stadium cost. That means as a car renter in Phoenix (I go there often on business), I am paying for their stadium!
Minor note: I was responsible for setting up a National meeting (36 attendees, 8-10 car rentals). I was going to consider Phoenix, but eliminated it, after I found out about this little gem.
I don't mind new taxes and would generally prefer an Expiring Dedicated Sales Tax for this. That way it goes away at a point in time or after x million collected.
The problem with general revenue allocation is that even after the Facility starts returning revenue (assuming it does) the general tax burdon never declines.
I Like VISABLE taxes if taxes must be used at all.
That car rental tax is a creative way for a city to have a stadium financed by people who don't live in the city (and therefore don't vote for its elected leaders). As sh!tty as this seems, you gotta admire people for their ingenuity in these things. LOL.