Controversy Surrounds Architect Choice for Arco’s Busa Arena Project
The agreement between the municipalities of Rivana and Arco regarding the anticipated construction of the Busa sports arena is tinged with controversy. While both sides agree on locating the future structure in the land of Benaco, replacing the tent at the ex Rigotti area, they clash over the appointment of the designer.
According to well-informed sources, in the municipality of Arco there is a demand to choose the professional who will develop the giant sports facility. The reason for this unusual diktat remains unknown. The most popular hypothesis among many is that the incomprehensible stance of the municipal administration of the olive city could be a “classic ace up the sleeve.”
“If our hypothesis is confirmed by facts, this unexpected conditioning, which strongly appears to be an imposition, will definitely benefit the rapid construction of the sports hall,” say these residents of the Busa. “Could it be that the ‘designated’ architect has unknown privileged channels with the Province capable of speeding up the necessary multi-billion euro funding?”
The truth will tell whether we guessed correctly or whether, instead, we have been fantasizing. Apart from conjectures, an immediate clarification is necessary to understand the real situation. The municipal councils of Rivana and Arco must promptly make public the details of the entire affair.”
Other Cases of Issues in the Appointment of the Designer
If the issue is as stated, mayors Cesare Malossini and Renato Veronesi have a tough “cat to skin.” For Arco, this is not the only complication regarding the appointment of the designer for a public work. The other case, which is still “hot,” concerns the halted restoration of the historic Palazzo Marchetti.
A protocol of understanding from last summer, later cancelled, between the municipal administration and the property for a thirty-year lease of the building, provided that the latter would appoint the professional responsible for the modernization. However, the hefty fee was borne by the council.
The agreement was ultimately dismissed due to fierce opposition from the minorities, especially from the Casa delle Libertà.