FTR: The Baltimore Stallions came to Mtl in 96 with the same ownership group and Jim Speros as Team President. That revived Als franchise after 9-year absence.
The franchise was revoked by (then) Commissioner Larry Smith and a new one awarded to Wetenhall in March 1997. Smith then became team president and his tireless efforts helped Als cement themselves --- that and a fortuitous move to McGill for a playoff game.
But the grassroots explosion in football had been going on w/o presence of CFL before 96.
Braley did buy the Lions at the end of 96 season after they had been run into ground by Nelson Skalbania. But the team's true success came after hiring of Bobby Ackles and Wally Buono.
Yes, both men have invested millions and saved two major franchises. For that, they should have the appreciation of all CFL fans.
But both men (and any other private owner or governor) have to be held accountable for anything they do to undermine the overall health of the League.
They may not like being told how to run their own businesses.
They may not like the current commissioner, the one before him or for that matter, the idea of a commissioner to handle League affairs.
But they all have to realize that they, like your username suggests, are caretakers.
It is not about them, it is not about ego, it is not being allowed to run their businesses the way they see fit regardless of any League-wide consequences.
They each represent one vote among the BOG. Any of them are free to voice opinion, displeasure, make recommendations, etc.
What they are not entitled to do to is to let their personal agendas or grievances get in the way of the CFL's continued growth.
It is a collective, socialist approach that needs to be taken with the CFL. Granted, this is probably contrary to their own sense of how to run a business. But this is more than just a business or their own business. It is a League that is an important part of this country's sporting and cultural fabric.
It is not their private play toy.
This continual backroom intrigue among the BOG is what the media love and the fans hate. Like you, I believe the business of the BOG should be administered behind closed doors. But if one side is going to use the media to get their agenda out in public, it should hardly be surprising when the aggrieved side will do the same.
You are right in your last comment. If there is a failure, it will be collaborative. Of course, many of us wonder whether everyone in that group feels the same way.
And whatever fate holds in store for Tom Wright, the fans should know who among the BOG were supportive and who were not.
If they are going to do their dirty work behind the scenes or by leaking damaging info to the press, they should also be forced to stand up to the scutiny and be accountable.
Steve