Rays Stadium

Ken Hagan, chair of the Hillsborough County Commission, says negotiations have included a way to transfer at least part of the city's $180 million investment to the county.

Predominant features in the new drawings are sky views through the see-thru cantilevered roof and an larger aquarium-like rays touch tank showcased in an expansive plaza entrance.

A request for qualifications offers some timeline specifics that reflect the team's sense of urgency, with site work expected to begin Aug. 14, the same day the construction manager is announced.

The state's $117.6 billion budget includes $50 million for the college to relocate on the property if the ballpark goes up However, he warned that a financing deal needs to be finalized soon.

The Bucs' plans include a shading structure to protect fans from the elements. Tampa City Council Chair Alan Clendenin says that's an example of a desire — not a lease obligation — as far as taxpayers are concerned.

After learning they cannot remove appointees, commissioners voted to launch a review of TSA meeting minutes and members' financial records that could lead to a request for governor's involvement.

The agency's counsel said the accused members would not see "private gain or loss” if a Rays' stadium was near their properties. Tampa resident Jared Willis, who made the allegations, vowed to press on.

The legal opinion was requested by Commissioner Christine Miller after TSA voted to draft a letter to elected leaders seeking to prioritize Raymond James Stadium renovations over a new Rays ballpark.

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.

A letter from a local attorney calls for four members of the board to resign because of properties they own. Meantime, a key vote on the stadium plan was postponed at least two months by Tampa's CRA board.

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."

While not choosing between building a Rays ballpark and modernizing the Bucs' facility, a letter from the board to Hillsborough officials urges officials to keep the aging 65,000-seat stadium in money-making form.