For starters, the majority of this Rhino Times article deals with Greensboro’s cop cam issue—-the City Council viewed video of a police officer using an “inappropriate amount of force” with a suspect whose charges of assault were later dropped. The council voted to release the video on Monday after viewing it in closed session. According to the Rhino’s report and reports from the N&R, some council members were deeply disturbed by what they saw on the video.
But as the marathon meeting wound down, our state’s other, more lingering hot button issue—HB2 came up. During that discussion, council member Tony Wilkins–according to the Rhino—posed an interesting question—considering the cancellations of sports and entertainment events in Greensboro due to HB2, should the city reconsider building a new performing arts center?
Putting the big-ass hole in the ground between Elm and Lindsey streets where the performing arts center is set to rise, it’s an interesting question. Mayor Vaughan’s response is even more interesting:
Vaughan replied, “We have to show we have the backbone to make a bold investment. And she noted the city was getting a building for 50 percent off and it would be foolish to pass up a deal like that. The Greater Greensboro Community Foundation has raised half the cost of the performing arts center in private donations.
Let’s be real—Wilkins’ question is legitimate, if you believe the supposed economic devastation HB2 is wreaking on Gboro and the rest of the state being trumpeted by the mainstream media. It’s a big gamble—what if Gov. Pat McCrory wins reelection—-(decent odds in my book)and Republicans hold the General Assembly (almost certain odds)? In that scenario HB2 will not be repealed, so it seems like a pretty big gamble to build a $60-plus million venue where no entertainers will want to perform due to North Carolina’s hate and bigotry. Just saying.
As for Charlotte, it’s interesting how the rights transgender people to use the bathroom of their choice so suddenly seems so insignificant.
