Tampa City Council

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.

Shaded seats sound great, but how much public money should be spent on renovating the Bucs' facility? And, how can Tampa and Hillsborough afford that project while helping build a baseball “Forever Home.”

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.

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."

A CRA board vote scheduled for Thursday could be pushed back to July 23. Meantime, the Rays will meet with Drew Park residents on Wednesday, who have complained about being left out of the discussions.

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.