Rays Stadium

The commissioner discussed the proposal at an owners' meeting when the Rays gave an update. Meantime, former manager Joe Maddon says he hopes Tampa can "finish what we started."

Local government support for the Rays' ballpark was fragile before the tax measure went on the November ballot. Now, the Tampa Sports Authority is writing a letter to state its priority: Raymond James Stadium.

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.

With a tense 4-3 vote, the city approved the non-binding agreement, allowing negotiations to continue on building the ballpark. But council members still have several concerns.

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.

On "Florida Matters Live & Local," Joshua Wostal explains his skepticism of the plan, how it's being presented, promises that taxpayers won't be exposed and the team's transparency.

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

There is plenty of support for a plan to build a Rays stadium in Tampa. But there are skeptics, and the most vocal is on "Florida Matters Live & Local." Commissioner Joshua Wostal gives specifics ahead of some big votes.

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