The first of 6 Senate hearings on the proposed Pawsox stadium in downtown Pawtucket began last week with 5 more scheduled throughout the state thru October 19th. Next up, Tolman High School on Exchange Street in Pawtucket at 6pm September 26th. Last week's initial hearing at the State House lasted an ungodly 7 hours. Hopefully things will be streamlined moving forward. It's important to note that people are allowed to get up and speak in the order which they sign in before the hearings begin so it's good to get there early. The next TWO meetings will include presentations by state and city leaders BEFORE the public speaks so maybe my hopes of moving things faster will be dashed. We'll see. Pawsox ownership will put up $45 million of the $83 million public ballpark costs. That 56% of the total nut plus a promise to pay for any construction over runs. Governor Raimondo and Senate President Dominick Ruggerio are in favor of the proposal yet House Speaker Nick Mattiello has ben tepid at best. I find this curious as Mattiello was strongly in favor building a new stadium along the Providence waterfront, a deal that put almost ALL of the cost on taxpayers backs. We have five more chances to be part of the process. Let's take advantage of these opportunities.