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If the Calgary Flames have truly abandoned the idea of pursuing a new arena, then the efforts at city hall to resurrect negotiations are rather moot.

If, however, the ominous finality of such a public declaration was intended to convince city council to crack, then mission accomplished.

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The owners of the Flames may not have secured the outcome they not-so-subtly lusted after in the last mayoral race, but they may ultimately succeed in a much larger goal: to wring more concessions from the city, and hence, a better deal on a new arena.

One thing seemed clear in this standoff from the moment talks collapsed: that whichever side went crawling back to the other, is the side forfeiting a considerable amount of leverage.

It’s still early days, but it’s looking increasingly like the Flames are suddenly holding a much stronger hand.

Led by newcomer Coun. Jeff Davison, some on city council are pushing for the creation of a new committee, with the hope being that some “fresh faces” would make the Flames more amenable to coming back to the negotiating table, and perhaps even more amenable toward making a deal.