Aide to N.J. Gov. Christie defends retaining stadium, Izod, PNC boxes
THE RECORD
STAFF WRITER
Governor Christie’s spokesman vigorously defended the administration’s intention Monday to maintain an option to entertain guests in a free, 24-seat luxury suite at the new Meadowlands football stadium.
That’s even though last week, Christie ordered the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority to stop selling its collection of “house seat” tickets for state sports and entertainment facilities at face value to political insiders.
“The boxes provide entertainment, but serve legitimate business, government and political functions as well,” Christie spokesman Michael Drewniak said. “Dignitaries, promoters and vendors, political figures — including political opponents — and others would be expected to use the boxes.”
The state’s deal with the Jets and Giants for the $1.6 billion stadium, signed in 2005 by Governor Codey, maintains an arrangement similar to one the Governor’s Office had at Giants Stadium. The Governor’s Office and the sports authority board each
KEVIN R. WEXLER / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
“The boxes provide entertainment, but serve legitimate business, government and political functions as well,” Christie spokesman Michael Drewniak said. “Dignitaries, promoters and vendors, political figures — including political opponents — and others would be expected to use the boxes.”
The state’s deal with the Jets and Giants for the $1.6 billion stadium, signed in 2005 by Governor Codey, maintains an arrangement similar to one the Governor’s Office had at Giants Stadium. The Governor’s Office and the sports authority board each