SENATE COMMUNITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE, No. 1588

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED: OCTOBER 28, 1996

      The Senate Community Affairs Committee reports favorably Senate Bill No. 1588.

      This billis intended to permit municipalities to establish municipal sports facility authorities for the purpose of financing, constructing, and operating various sports facilities such as basketball and tennis courts, soccer fields, golf courses, and baseball and football stadiums. This bill also would enable a municipal sports facility authority to construct and operate a stadium for a professional or semi-professional sports team such as a minor league baseball team. These facilities could provide recreational and economic opportunities for a community as well as increase tourism. The construction and operation of sports facilities may be particularly beneficial to the revitalization efforts of resort communities.