"My taxes will help pay for the Rays ballpark." No existing taxes will be diverted to fund the ballpark, and no new taxes will be imposed.
"Taxpayers will get stuck with the bill if the Tropicana Field redevelopment falls through." The Trop will be redeveloped simultaneously with a new ballpark, ensuring the revenue generators are in place.
"Florida is too hot for outdoor baseball." By using a variety of cooling techniques, the fan experience will be comparable to Baltimore, Kansas City and St. Louis.
"The Rays should spend their money on payroll, not a new ballpark." Investing in a new facility will allow the Rays to increase and sustain the payroll significantly over the long term.
"The Rays are trying to use public land for their own private benefit." The Rays are actually putting over 85 acres of land currently used for baseball back on the tax rolls, creating new jobs,new retail,and new open space. The waterfront ballpark will also include a new public park.
"This is a ploy to move the team." The Rays are committed to St. Petersburg. We are not demanding a ballpark. The Rays feel this is a rare opportunity to create a win-win with the City and community.
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