'Critical in getting the politicians on board was Hamister's explanation that he is not seeking public money to help purchase the team. Instead, Hamister asked for the state to refinance a $22.9 million loan on the construction of HSBC Arena, the Sabres' home, and $10 million in capital improvements to the six-year-old facility. He also stressed that no public funds would go toward the reported $70 million purchase of the franchise.'