A passionate fan club for the Tampa Bay Rays is actively campaigning to push the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners to endorse a stadium deal approved in July. This effort comes ahead of a pivotal vote that could seal or disrupt plans for the team’s future in St. Petersburg.
Heather Clark, a dedicated Rays fan, articulates the potential benefits of the stadium development, emphasizing its significant and enduring economic impact. This perspective gained momentum last summer when local leaders initially approved the deal, securing the team’s long-term presence in St. Petersburg. However, unforeseen challenges emerged when Hurricane Milton inflicted severe damage on Tropicana Field.
In response, the Rays announced plans to temporarily relocate to George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa for the 2025 season, a move that sparked discontent among some Pinellas County Commissioners. Chris Latvala, representing District Five, expressed particular dissatisfaction, citing a perceived lack of effort by the team to stay within Pinellas County by utilizing a minor league ballpark. He highlighted that Pinellas residents would contribute over $1 billion in public funds and criticized the decision to play games in Hillsborough County.
Latvala’s stance poses a threat to the ongoing plans for the new stadium in St. Petersburg’s Historic Gas Plant District Redevelopment. Although initially approved in a 5-2 vote, the project still requires commissioner approval on bonds necessary for partial funding. Latvala is not alone in his stance; additional commissioners, including two newly elected ones, might align with his viewpoint, potentially jeopardizing the stadium deal.
Clark and her fellow fan club members have launched an extensive social media campaign to sway the commissioners’ decision. They hope their efforts will maintain Major League Baseball’s presence in Tampa Bay. Using various communication methods such as emails, texts, and calls, they aim to share their perspective and gain support from the community.
The impending vote by the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners remains crucial for the Tampa Bay Rays’ future in St. Petersburg. Despite opposition from certain commissioners, the fan club remains hopeful that their persistent efforts will influence a favorable outcome, ensuring that baseball thrives in their beloved city.
Source: ABC Action News
