After four hours of lengthy discussions, the Glendale Council City voted yes on the Phoenix Coyotes arena deal. Despite intense debate, they agreed to a $15 million-per-year contract the city-owned Jobing.com Arena. During a roll call, the votes tallied were 4-3 in favor allowing Renaissance Sports & Entertainment Canadian partners George Cosbee and Anthony LeBlanc to become new owners of the troubled franchise. They’re teaming up with Global Spectrum of the Philadelphia Flyers to help manage the arena. 

In the end, the council decided it was best for business to keep the Coyotes in Arizona. Even if the process dragged out, it proved entertaining. At least the city of Glendale knows they still have a team. Ultimately, it means they won’t be relocated to Seattle. Instead, a more stable organization run by Don Maloney and coached by Dave Tippett gets another chance. Gary Bettman must be relieved. 

Hopefully with better ownership, the Coyotes will flourish. Moving forward, it will be interesting to watch if LeBlanc keeps his promise. An aggressive marketing strategy along with financial stability could go a long way to making a hockey club in Golden Gate, Arizona successful.