Judge denies Goldwater Institute’s temporary restraining order

A Superior Court Judge has denied Goldwater Institute’s
temporary restraining order against Glendale City
Council’s decision on arena deal.

Judge Katherine Cooper ruled that the Maricopa County
Superior Court does not have the authority to block the
Council from voting on the $325 million deal, expected to
pass by a 4-3 vote.

But Goldwater’s not done.

Attorneys for the conservative think-tank are expected to
file another challenge on Monday, claiming the city has
brokered a backroom deal.

“We absolutely will challenge this vote,” said Carrie Ann
Sitren, an attorney representing Goldwater.

In court on Friday, Sitren argued that Glendale has
ignored their public records request in failing to produce
key financial documents in a timely manner.

Among the concealed reports are management performance
standards and the annual budget for Jobing.com Arena,
Sitren said.

“We are concerned the deal violates the Arizona
Constitution’s gift clause which regulates tax subsidies
for private businesses,” Sitren said.

While Judge Cooper didn’t grant the restraining order,
Goldwater was pleased with her comments in court.

“If the city had complied with orders in the first place,
(Judge Cooper) would not have said what she said today,”
Sitren said. “She was very clear that the city was in
contempt of court, violated court orders and if the deal
is approved it will be struck down.”

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