Convention center big topic in Tuesday’s election

WILMINGTON — With the election just days away several key issues are in the spotlight. Topping that list is the Wilmington convention center.

Now the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is criticizing certain candidates for allegedly trying to mislead voters about the project.

Members say the convention center will be funded from room-occupancy tax revenue and will generate $1.5 million a year for the local economy.

Mayoral candidate Harper Peterson has made his stance against the project a center-piece of his campaign. He says the chamber is speculating on its future success.

“Who’s going to pay for this when it sits empty, when we have a tropical storm, when we have to compete against Myrtle Beach, New Bern, Raleigh and Charlotte? It’s just not a wise business decision,” Peterson said.

Mayoral candidate Justin LaNasa also opposes the convention center calling it poorly planned. Mayor Bill Saffo favors it not only for the revenue he says it will generate, but for the 800-1,200 new jobs it will create.