Mayor Ballard says Indy’s talking tough with Pacers

Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard says when it comes to negotiations with the Pacers, it’s the city that’s driving a hard bargain.

The Pacers say they’re losing lots of money.  They want the city to pay the $18 million a year they say it costs to run Conseco Fieldhouse. Tied in to that? The revenue from non-game events – money the Pacers now get.  It’s one of the issue on the table.

“It’s been a little mischaracterized. We’re the ones being obstinate, not them,” said Ballard, who did not elaborate.

The Pacers have said they want a decision one way or another by the end of next month.

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