Warning: This column may upset a lot of people. But I'm going to write it anyway, because it's not every day Gov. Jim Doyle and I agree on something.

The governor's latest capital budget asks for state support for upgrades to the Bradley Center in Milwaukee. Given our current widespread unemployment and absurdly high taxes amid a severe recession, this might seem like an untenable position. And it would be, if public financing had to be voted on tomorrow. Fortunately, the building is able to operate for now. But time is running very short, so the Legislature should start the dialogue immediately.

(Full disclosure: I am a former employee of the Milwaukee Bucks and have many friends in the organization. But my affinity for the Bradley Center's primary tenant is not the driving force behind my stance. )

The facility was built with a $93 million gift from the late Jane Bradley Pettit to the State of Wisconsin, in effect making it a state-owned building. It has operated for 21 years without tax dollars or any other form of public assistance, a rarity among government-owned public assembly facilities. Miller Park, Lambeau Field and Camp Randall Stadium each have received taxpayer dollars during these years for construction or renovation, and the teams that play in those stadiums have benefited greatly from the additional revenue streams created. Revenue is just what pro basketball's second-oldest arena needs.

Among the Bradley Center's myriad needs are a new roof, updated mechanical systems and parking structure repairs. These items are important even if you don't like sports because marquee concerts won't come to a substandard facility, either. And even if you're not one of the estimated 1.6 million who visit the building annually, the approximately $100 million in state tax revenues generated and $50 million spent in contracts with Wisconsin businesses in its existence have been valuable to our economy.

Our entire state has a vital interest in keeping the building viable, especially the approximately 1,200 people it employs during these tough times. Restaurants, bars and hotels would lose business as well.

Taxpayer contributions aren't my ideal choice to solve the Bradley Center's problems, but private donations aren't abundant right now. Naming rights negotiations, ceased amid the Bradley family's misgivings, probably won't be reopened. Sen. Herb Kohl (D-Wis.) has been losing money on his investment, and the Bucks aren't guaranteed to stay here when he eventually sells them. A targeted tax similar to Miller Park's appears to be the only option.

Last year's Brewers' playoff berth would have been impossible without Miller Park. Based on results and attendance, I'd say the tax worked. The stadium is a summer destination, with amenities that Bradley Center officials only dream about.

For the Bucks, a new arena is ideal, but renovations are essential. Miller Park was realized after about 15 years of wrangling. The Bucks and their building can't afford to wait that long.

If Wisconsin doesn't act, the Bucks and many other entertainment options could disappear. That would make winter feel even colder.