Boston mayor won't sign host city contract for 2024 Olympic bid

Boston mayor Marty Walsh is trying to protect taxpayers, but he might cost the city a shot at hosting the 2024 Olympics in the process.

Walsh said Monday that he won't sign a host city contract without an assurance tthat taxpayers won't be left to foot the bill for any potential overrun costs.

"If committing to signing the guarantee today is what's required to move forward, then Boston is no longer pursuing the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic games," Walsh said.

"I'm not signing an agreement that's going to cost the taxpayers if there are overruns."

The host city contract is seen as an essential component for cities with Olympic dreams, and the United States Olympic Committee wants full support from city and state leadership if they are to officially submit a bid on behalf of an American city.

The deadline to submit a nomination is Sept. 15.