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NBA Commissioner Says He's 'Hopeful' As Documents Show Maloofs' Lack Faith In New Arena

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) -NBA Commissioner David Stern is framing Sacramento's arena debate in a new way.

"You know, I'm more hopeful than I am confident right now. I'm hopeful because the city of Sacramento has, between last meeting and this, been responsible for responding on a sponsorship basis, on a ticket basis and on allocating $250 million or so for a new arena," said Stern.

However, now the Maloofs are disputing the likelihood a new arena can be built, not just refusing to pay for pre-development costs.

Public documents obtained by CBS13 show their lawyer has sent several letters to City Hall addressing many other concerns.

One, dated March 20, is headlined, "Outline of Feasibility Concerns."

It has 11 pages, 16 bullet points, starting with a line that reads "the city is behind on its own schedule." The letter goes on to outline concerns over environmental reports, infrastructure and public political opposition to the arena project.

Another letter sent just this week references a local signature drive to stop public funding of the arena.

It reads, "The fact that this initiative drive is occurring makes it impossible for the city to provide current assurances that its funding plan is feasible."

The NBA had negotiated the terms of the agreement on behalf of the owners but that framework is falling apart.

Right now, a handshake agreement isn't holding up.

Public Documents:
Outline of Feasibility Concerns
March 5, 2012, Letter to City Attorney Eileen Teichert from Maloof's Lawyer
March 6, 2012, Entertainment and Sports Complex
March 27, 2012, Letter to Maloof's Lawyer RE Entertainment and Sports Complex
March 28, 2012, Letter to John Dangberg from Maloof's Lawyer
April 3, 2012, Senator Steinberg's Reaction to Maloof Attorney's Letter

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