Allegheny County Council yesterday unanimously passed a motion that criticizes county Chief Executive Dan Onorato for asking the state for $25 million to $30 million in capital funds to start the process of building a new arena for the Penguins.

Mr. Onorato, along with city officials, has asked Gov. Ed Rendell for the money as an advance, which would eventually be reimbursed through gambling revenues.

Councilwoman Jan Rea, R-McCandless, who introduced the motion, said council should have a say if the county is going to try to use taxpayer money to fund the arena.

County Manager Jim Flynn said Mr. Onorato, as chief executive, has the right to make financial requests in Harrisburg.

Council President Rich Fitzgerald, D-Squirrel Hill, said council members hope to discuss the issue further with Mr. Onorato's administration and representatives from the city-county Sports & Exhibition Authority.