County Commissioners Express Concerns
Multnomah County Commissioners Julia Brim-Edwards and Meghan Moyer have voiced frustrations regarding the proposed renovation of the Moda Center, which includes a public funding package approaching $600 million. Their concerns were outlined in a letter addressed to County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson this week. The commissioners are seeking more information before a potential vote that could release over $100 million in county funds.
Commissioner Brim-Edwards highlighted that the county’s total financial commitment, including debt service, could increase to nearly $140 million. She emphasized the need for a pause on any immediate vote, stating that sufficient information is not yet available. Brim-Edwards asserted that the county should not approve a “blank check” without proper due diligence.
Commissioner Moyer echoed these sentiments, suggesting that while the county could be a supportive partner, the expected contribution amount needs to be appropriate for the county’s role. Moyer noted that the county’s annual budget is significantly smaller than that of the city or the state. She expressed concern that funds allocated to the Moda Center could divert resources from essential services such as Sun Schools or mental health programs.
The county chair’s proposal includes approximately $88 million for renovation work, intended to be covered by business taxes from sales, lodging, and rental cars. Brim-Edwards pointed out that this commitment, with debt service, could extend until 2049, representing a long-term obligation for the county.
Information Disputes and City’s Term Sheet
Brim-Edwards has requested an updated economic impact statement for the arena, detailed construction plans, cost estimates for the renovation, and information regarding property tax abatements in the area. She indicated that these requests have not yet been fulfilled. Despite these concerns, Brim-Edwards expressed her intention to gather the necessary information to support the deal, recalling her memories of the Trail Blazers’ 1977 championship parade and her season tickets for the Portland Fire.
The city administration previously stated that the team has been withholding crucial project information, complicating the evaluation process for elected officials. City Administrator Raymond Lee mentioned that the absence of essential details from the Blazers is slowing progress. However, team spokesperson Charles Boyle disputed this characterization, stating that the team has engaged in multiple discussions and walkthroughs with city officials, providing more information than state leaders had during the legislative session.
These developments follow the city’s recent submission of a draft term sheet to the Portland Trail Blazers. The team confirmed receipt of the document and is currently reviewing it. This draft outlines requests from the city for a long-term commitment from the team and aims to bring the Blazers to the negotiating table, as the team had previously indicated it was awaiting a term sheet to commence negotiations.
The draft term sheet includes several key provisions:
- A binding 20-year non-relocation commitment from the team.
- Requirements for labor-peace agreements to ensure a stable workforce.
- Financial protections, including clear caps on public funding, limits on eligible expenses, and safeguards against cost overruns for the city, state, and county.
- A $3 million annual property tax offset payment from Rip City Management, which would escalate over time, with proceeds shared among the city, county, and Portland Public Schools.
- Requirements for community event access, local hiring, sustainability standards, and partnerships with Albina-based organizations.
The city is expected to hold a vote on the team’s future and the renovations in August.
Community and Political Reactions
County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson issued a statement affirming that the board had previously supported a proposed investment by Multnomah County as part of an agreement with state and city partners. She noted that a resolution coming to the board next week reflects the board’s priorities and feedback, aiming to establish terms and expectations for the county’s potential investment in a renovated Moda Center. Vega Pederson emphasized that a deal must include strong community benefits, good jobs, and an opportunity to revitalize the Rose Quarter and Albina neighborhoods.
The delivery of the draft term sheet occurred weeks before a scheduled vote on August 12 to finalize a term sheet for negotiations. Some councilors were reportedly displeased with the city administration’s decision to send the draft after an executive session. Councilor Mitch Green clarified that the document received by the Blazers was not a final term sheet from the council, but rather the same draft that council members had received after initial reactions in an executive session.
Meanwhile, a new coalition named “We Are Rip City,” comprising local restaurants, small businesses, and community organizations, has launched a campaign to modernize the Moda Center and secure the Trail Blazers’ future in Oregon. Jim Etzel, co-chair of the coalition, expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating that a term sheet is crucial for initiating negotiations. He highlighted that the deal extends beyond politics, impacting the city’s economic future, vibrancy, and vitality. Lifelong fan Nate Reiman echoed this sentiment, believing that keeping the Blazers in the city would unite the community.
The city is expected to take a vote on the future of the team and those renovations in August.
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Source: katu.com
