Tampa Bay Rays Stadium: Public Opinion & Funding

0:00Public opinion is out on a new Tababay Ray Stadium in Hillsboro County and folks lean toward building it in Tampa as the best shot to keep the team there. A poll by a top GOP firm shows 58% in favor of the general plan versus 29% opposed. With most agreeing, it will boost the economy. The survey hit 530 people with a 4.3% margin of error. But when it comes to tapping community investment sales tax money, support drops hard. Are 31% say yes to using it fully? While 64% say no. Even for any amount of that tax cash, it's only 34% in favor against 59% opposed. That tax got voter approval back in 2024, specifically for schools, roads and public safety, not stadiums. County commissioners are split, with backers like Ken Hagen calling the funds essential, while others like Josh Wastar argue it breaks the promise.

1:00Made to voters. 85% want the call on using that tax and straight to a voter referendum. Meanwhile, the county attorney is drafting a legal opinion on whether it's even allowed. Next week, brings a workshop to hash out funding with a raise, who've committed to half of the $2.3 billion project. Eyes are an early may for a commission vote if a deal lands, but those details stay under wraps for now. Stay informed with Tampa Bay News. Today, AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with The Story.