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I long have thought Polin didn't get enough criticism for the $50 million shake down in 2007. People praise him for building the MCI Center in his own dime, but it was he who showed up at the Wilson building after Nationals Park was built asking "where's mine"? The utter nakedness of the quid pro quou with the council was shocking even by 2012 standards: they gave Pollin $50 million, he gave them two luxury suites.

Those that defend his giveaway point to the increased ticket tax that was applied to pay back the money. But Pollin could have just done the same thing without increasing our debt load and leaving us with the risk.

Pollin deserve credit for building the MCI center mostly on his own. But he tarnished his legacy with this cash grab.

@falls church

You're getting two things mixed up. Employers can give an unlimited value in free parking. In other words, even if the market value of a paking space is, say, $1,000 a month, an employer can give it to the employees for free if they want. The $220 cap is on the tax deduction for employees who have to pay for parking. I thought DC was exploring taxing employees for the value of free parking received, but I can't remember whether that ever passed.

by TM on Aug 13, 2012 9:38 am • link • report