Tampa Bay Rays Unveil Stadium Funding Strategy; Public Invited...

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In a recent development, Tampa’s city officials have greenlit a plan to gather community feedback on a financial proposal put forth by the Tampa Bay Rays. On Thursday, the team unveiled a Memorandum of Understanding that details the financial requirements for the project’s realization.

The Rays assured that funding the project would not necessitate new taxes. All stakeholders have committed to a “do no harm” strategy, safeguarding essential public services such as law enforcement, fire department, and emergency management operations.

After Hurricane Milton in 2024, Rays celebrate at Tropicana Field with a triumphant return following the repair of its damaged roof.

The financial framework for the initiative totals $2.3 billion. The Rays plan to contribute $1.235 billion and cover any additional expenses. They propose to secure $750 million from Hillsborough County, $64 million from other public sources, and $251 million from the City of Tampa.

“In our workshop, our primary focus is to engage with the public and discuss the key aspects of the deal,” remarked Council Member Bill Carlson during Thursday night’s city council session.

Hillsborough College Dale Mabry Campus would receive what the team calls a transformative upgrade. Thursday, the Rays submitted permits with Southwest Florida Water Management District for the development of “The Nest.” They will install temporary classroom trailers in the overflow parking area, to relocate students during construction.

A statement from HC read, “The College’s priority during any transition to temporary facilities is to ensure the continuity of academic programs and student services. Overall, the College’s goal is to preserve access and minimize disruption throughout any potential redevelopment.”

This would be a 35-year lease with an extension option for up to 15 years. There is also a non-relocation agreement the Rays could commit to with the city and county.

In an email from County Attorney Julia Mandell to county staff, the attorney said the MOU is “purely the work product of the Rays’ organization; it has not been reviewed or analyzed by any of the government entities, including the County Administration or my office. Therefore, none of the governmental entities, including the County Administration, have provided any comments to the Rays organization on this document nor have the governmental entities discussed the contents of this document with each other.”

City Councilwoman Lynn Hurtak told 8 On Your Side city staff received a similar message. She said the MOU is a good start.

“Right now, we’re still very up in the air. But now we have at least a document to work from,” Hurtak said.

Hurtak also said lawyers will have to determine if CIT funds can be used for this project.

“I think anything is gettable if you want to get it. And that’s just, it’s a function of priorities for the citizens of the City of Tampa,” Hurtak said.

A recent poll, sought out independently by Tampa Sports Authority member Andy Scaglione, found the majority of people surveyed want CIT funding to go to schools, transportation, public safety, and utilities. Only 3% said it should go toward a new baseball stadium.

When it comes to the Drew Park CRA, Hurtak said the city just approved $10 million to help improve the walkability of the area, and that the Rays promised they won’t use current CRA funds, though she, and other city council members question how this will work.

“We just we don’t have a lot of money in that one. But this is important to the community that’s there,” Hurtak said.

Council members said they want to hear from the public directly to see if this project can come to life.

“They’re a business. And we’ve never done that to any other business other than sports,” said Council Member Charlie Miranda.

The Rays MOU public meeting with the city is set for 5 p.m. on May 5 at the Tampa Convention Center. Details are still being discussed. Council members indicated they would like all parties involved to attend. The council also approved a motion by Carlson to ask the Tampa Sports Authority to send over a written report with their recommendations of the MOU before the public meeting happens.

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Tampa Bay Rays Unveil Stadium Funding Strategy; Public Invited to Share Feedback at Upcoming City Meeting

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