Coyotes taking next steps toward building new arena

(KYMA, KECY/ AP News) - After an eight-hour meeting late last week, the Arizona Coyotes finally got what they wanted: approval to negotiate with the City of Tempe to build a new arena close to downtown.

The organization gave an elaborate presentation with players on hand to give their support and listened to concerns presented by Sky Harbor Airport officials.

Meanwhile, more than 100 citizens offered their opinions, then statements from 220 more were read in the Tempe City council chambers.

And now comes the next phase.

The right to negotiate a deal in place, the Coyotes are in the process of working out the details in what they hope are the final steps toward securing a new permanent home.

The hockey organization have been searching for a permanent home since the city of Glendale pulled out of a 15-year, $225 million lease agreement in 2015. Glendale decided to not renew the lease after the 2021-22 season and the coyotes found a temporary home at Arizona State’s new 5,000-seat arena starting next season.