Board of County Commissioners: Special Meeting - 08.28.26

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners held a special meeting on August 28, 2026, to consider and approve agreements related to the development and funding of a new ballpark and mixed-use district for the Tampa Bay Rays at the Hillsborough College Dale Mabry campus. The meeting included detailed presentations on the financial structure, including a $2.3 billion estimated ballpark cost, with the county and city proposing a combined contribution of $876 million primarily funded through the Community Investment Tax (CIT), cash reserves, and disaster recovery funds. Key provisions discussed included a non-relocation agreement, a guarantee agreement requiring the Rays to cover cost overruns, and a community benefits agreement with a minimum of $50 million allocated, 65% of which would go to the county. The board addressed concerns about the use of public funds, potential impacts on infrastructure projects, and the long-term economic benefits tied to the surrounding development. After extensive public comment both in support and opposition, the board voted 5-2 to approve the agreements with amendments to the community benefits agreement. The meeting emphasized the importance of protecting taxpayer interests while pursuing a significant public-private partnership to retain the Rays and stimulate economic growth in the region.