The St. Petersburg City Council held another workshop session on Wednesday to discuss the comprehensive details of the dozen agreements tied to the proposed $1.3 billion ballpark for the Tampa Bay Rays. This comes ahead of the first expected regulatory votes.
This workshop followed a recent council meeting focused on the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District surrounding the stadium site. The latest discussion centered exclusively on the new stadium’s construction, operational management, and financial arrangements. Mayor Ken Welch emphasized the project’s potential to secure the Rays’ future in St. Pete and boost the local economy by creating tens of thousands of jobs during and after construction. The Rays leadership also unveiled new renderings, highlighting the ballpark’s potential as a year-round community asset.
Key points of discussion included the 30-year lease and operation agreement, where the Rays would handle maintenance, revenue from events, and naming rights, and cover property insurance costs estimated at over $200 million. The agreement also includes a non-relocation clause, ensuring the Rays remain in St. Pete for the duration of the lease, with plans to begin construction in early 2025.
Council members raised concerns about details still needing clarification, such as the stadium’s role in disaster recovery and the substantial investment required from the city and county. The total project cost includes $287 million from the city, potentially rising to nearly $500 million with interest, and approximately $300 million from Pinellas County through the local bed tax.
Councilmember Richie Floyd voiced skepticism about the necessity of a new stadium for the district’s redevelopment, especially given the public financial burden, a sentiment echoed by a group of residents seeking a more taxpayer-friendly deal. The council needs five of its eight members to approve the project. Initial regulatory votes are expected at a council meeting on Thursday, with the final vote scheduled for July 11. All agreements will also require approval from the county and Major League Baseball.