Board of County Commissioners: Regular Meeting - 05.20.26

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners held a regular meeting on May 20, 2026, which included several proclamations and public hearings. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a nonbinding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Tampa Bay Rays organization regarding a proposed $2.3 billion stadium and mixed-use development project. The MOU outlines a public subsidy request of approximately $976 million from the county, city, and community redevelopment agency, primarily funded through the Community Investment Tax (CIT), tourist development tax, and reserves. The board discussed the financial framework, including a pay-as-you-go approach over four years, potential impacts on existing public projects funded by CIT, and the need for further negotiations on definitive agreements. Public comment featured diverse opinions, with some speakers opposing the use of taxpayer funds for the stadium citing concerns about transparency and fiscal responsibility, while others supported the project for its potential economic and community benefits. The board approved the MOU to continue negotiations, emphasizing that this was not a final agreement and that further detailed evaluations would follow. Additionally, the board approved a resolution allocating $317,100 for converting septic systems to sewer at the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center as part of the capital improvement program.