In the report, financial experts predict a massive economic impact if the Jackets were to leave Columbus.  Losses that include millions of dollars and thousands of jobs, 10TV's Patrick Bell reported.

Ty Marsh, chief executive officer of the Columbus Chamber, said the threat is real.

"We could really lose this team," Marsh said.  "But, more importantly, this isn't about saving the team.  It's about protecting and sustaining a taxpayer's investment, an economic engine producing real growth in that region."

ONLINE EXTRA: Mayor Michael Coleman's Statement | Blue Jackets President Mike Priest | Franklin Co. Commissioners

Ironically, the situation has nothing to do with fans.

Support of the Blue Jackets is among the best in the National Hockey League, with Nationwide Arena drawing large crowds for just about each home game.

The problem lies with Nationwide Arena.

The arena is privately owned, and the Jackets pay about $5 million each year in rent, Bell reported.

Rent, combined with other operational costs, leaves the team about $12 million in the red.

The chamber's report lists 19 options to preserve the Jackets in Columbus, Bell reported. Some of the options include using public money without a general tax increase. 

The options will be presented to lawmakers and other public officials in upcoming weeks.

WBNS-10TV's parent company, the Columbus Dispatch, is part owner of Nationwide Arena and the Columbus Blue Jackets

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