Jane Castor

Bill Carlson says the Rays are receptive to his plan to cover Tampa's share of construction through new tax-increment revenue from the stadium district that would also seed a citywide infrastructure trust fund.

Many SoHo business owners, concerned years construction could ruin their livelihoods, have sued the city, accusing it of withholding documents to “prevent public scrutiny” ahead of the city council's decision.

Mayor Jane Castor says council members have been kept informed and explains her frustration was over last week's votes, but remains optimistic a deal can be done that maintains Tampa's role in the project.

CEO Ken Babby meets with councilman Bill Carlson a day after two contentious decisions by the council and CRA board. Meantime, Mayor Jane Castor rebuked council members, eliciting a sharp response from Carlson.

After 30 years with the Tampa Police Department, Chief Lee Bercaw is stepping down to teach criminology at USF. During his tenure, the city saw a significant reduction in violent crime.

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.

Even though it's rained the past few days, local officials say our drought continues. Now, Tampa is doubling down on enforcing water restrictions.

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

Mayor Jane Castor says she expects the city council and county commission to pass the non-binding agreement, allowing negotiators to fill in the blanks on multiple documents in the complex deal.

In her final State of the City last week, Mayor Jane Castor highlighted investments made on her watch. “Florida Matters Live & Local” takes a closer look at what was said (infrastructure) and what was left out (stadiums).

Key topics included infrastructure improvements, transportation enhancements, housing, public safety and park and recreation repairs.

The redrawn congressional district lines that Gov. Ron DeSantis will soon sign into law are intended to help Republicans pick up as many as four U.S. House seats in November.