Overview
- The council reviewed the Rays’ $2.3 billion stadium plan in a public workshop and took no vote, saying a city decision will follow county action.
- Hillsborough County commissioners remain divided on a $750 million ask from the team, and no vote is on the May 20 agenda, tightening the timeline before June 1.
- The public share under discussion would be backed by bonds tied to a local sales tax and a Drew Park redevelopment district, which has raised worries about debt if revenues fall and about crowding out other projects.
- Rays CEO Ken Babby defended the plan, promised the largest community benefits deal in Tampa’s history, and said the team would cover construction cost overruns.
- Commissioner Joshua Wostal said mass emails pushing support were traced to a Los Angeles IP address, and the project still needs county and city approvals, possible state action on college land, and MLB sign-off.