Boston City Council members are raising concerns about the city's bid for the 2024 Summer Olympics.
The Boston City Council has formed its own committee to evaluate the bid — the first hearing was Friday at City Hall.
The public hearing was more formal, and less emotional than those that have taken place in neighborhoods across the city in recent months.
The private group Boston 2024 again presented its proposal for the games, reiterating that 70 percent of events would be held on local college campuses. City Councilors politely asked questions about cost overruns, small business support and a possible voter referendum.
And again, Boston 2024 reiterated it is still making plans with the mayor, that no costs or building plans are set. They say a voter referendum is welcome. As a side note, it’s important for Boston residents to understand the city council has put forth a nonbinding voter referendum, which would not stop the Olympics bid.
Councilors said they'll be looking to see what effects the plan will have on neighborhoods and small businesses.
Some raised the specter of shiny new sporting venues displacing low income residents and gentrifying working class neighborhoods.
Other council members voiced concerns about the games running over budget, forcing city taxpayers to foot the bill. And still others called out organizers for lack of transparency.
The U.S. Olympic Committee selected Boston over three other cities as the U.S. bidder for the 2024 Games. The International Committee will choose a host city in 2017.
Rome is among the other international cities in the running.
