This article is from the Portland tv station KOIN's website-02/04/03

Could Expos Be Solution To The State Budget Mess?

Some Say Yes, Others Say No Way

PORTLAND -- With the Montreal Expos set to move in 2004, some say bringing them to Portland could be a solution to the state's budget dilemma.
Not everyone agrees.

Critics of the plan think that the leaders should be concentrating on schools and the budget problems, not on baseball.

Mayor Vera Katz disagrees. "In my career I've handled several major projects at the same time, and we're not ignoring schools. It's still being handled as a top priority. We've got a good and big enough staff to make this a reality as well."

David Kahn of the Oregon Stadium Group also believes that the Expos would be good for the city.

"I do believe in time people will seize upon the fact that this could actually be an economic benefit to the city. It certainly makes the city more vibrant."

The Portland group will make a formal presentation to Major League officials next month.