Stadium Backers Jilted

Backers of an embattled plan for a public vote on a $425 million financing package for a new Seattle Seahawks stadium floated changes Monday that would allow them to abandon a so-called sports tax.

The ideas, offered by the chief House stadium backer, range from requiring billionaire Paul Allen to boost his contribution by $53 million to a larger state tax subsidy.

The proposals immediately hit a brick wall. Gov. Gary Locke flatly rejected any plan that means more tax subsidy, and Allen’s Football Northwest organization said the potential Seahawks owner won’t pay more than the $100 million share he already has accepted.

The issue could come to a head Wednesday. Thursday is the deadline for legislative action if a statewide election is to be conducted by June 17.