The St. Petersburg City Council voted on Thursday to approve bonds for financing the construction of a new Tampa Bay Rays stadium in the historic Gas Plant district.

Initial vote passes; county decision pending

After weeks of stagnation on the agreement reached in July, the council’s decision shifts responsibility to the Pinellas County Commission, which will vote on the funding approval on December 17. Following extensive discussions among council members and residents who spoke during an open debate, the vote ended 4-3 in favor of approval.

Councilwoman Gina Driscoll expressed her support before the vote, emphasizing that the Tampa Bay Rays had not issued a letter of termination. They are still engaged, and so am I, she said, ensuring confidence in a positive outcome.

© Mark Thor | Tropicana Field, devastated by hurricane Milton

Optimism from the mayor and council members

The Rays had previously suggested the deal was effectively dead, citing rising costs due to delays in approving the bonds. Councilwoman Brandi Gabbard, who also voted yes, noted that approving the bonds was essentially a test to see if the Rays were bluffing, forcing them to honor the original agreement instead of attempting to renegotiate.

Mayor Ken Welch addressed the city council before the vote, urging members to approve the bonds. He stated that earlier in the week, he met with Rays representatives and team owner Stu Sternberg. The meeting confirmed that the July agreement for the new stadium remains valid.

© CityofStPete (cc: by-nc) | Tropicana Field, devastated by hurricane Milton

Uncertain future for the team

The Pinellas County Commission has delayed its vote on stadium funding twice. Hurricane Milton, which devastated the Tampa-St. Pete area on October 10, rendered the Rays’ current venue, Tropicana Field, unfit for use in 2025. As a result, the Rays will play next season at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, but their long-term future after the 2024 season remains uncertain.