Hillsborough College

In a poll of more than 600 Hillsborough voters, nearly three-quarters wanted a public vote on whether taxpayer money should be used for the project. Even so, most agreed it would bring tangible benefits.

Board members of the redevelopment agency told Ken Babby they don't want all the future money going to the team. He said the larger community would benefit from what is called the "halo effect."

City negotiations with the team and the county have been handled by officials on the mayor's staff. But some council members have expressed frustration with having to vote on a deal without having a seat at the table.

Legislators have included $50 million in the state budget for campus improvements, as requested by the school. However, the governor said the state could eventually provide additional funding.

In an interview with the Tampa Bay Times, CEO Ken Babby says the economics behind the $2.3 project are settled after local approvals of a non-binding MOU, with the focus now on nailing down unresolved issues.

Senate Appropriations Chair Ed Hooper said the money won't be set until local financing agreements are a "done deal," and lawmakers needs something more concrete than this week's approved MOU.

The tentative agreement, finalized last week by the team, county and city, details financing for the $2.3 billion indoor stadium that would anchor a multiuse development in Drew Park.

If commissioners approve the non-binding memorandum of understanding, the city council will vote on its part of the financing the following day.

The state's transfer of 22 acres took place in February with minimal discussion and no mention of the appraised value of the land.

The non-binding memorandum of understanding drops the public money involved to $976 million. The deal must be voted on next week by the Hillsborough County Commission and Tampa City Council.

About $150 million sought to rebuild Hillsborough College isn't in the first spending offers. Budget committee Chair Ed Hooper, R-Clearwater, says the state won't act until stadium financing is complete.

The billionaire attorney calls Rays managing partner Patrick Zalupski a friend with whom he's had regular contact. The Rays, however, have an agreement to negotiate stadium plans only with Tampa and Hillsborough.