St. Petersburg Council to Vote on Rays Stadium Bonds

The St. Petersburg City Council is set to vote on Thursday regarding bonds for the $1.3 billion stadium deal for the Tampa Bay Rays, despite the team's recent claims that the project is no longer viable. The council added this vote to the agenda unexpectedly, prompting mixed reactions among members, particularly with new council members expressing skepticism about the deal. The bond approval would enable the Pinellas County Commission to consider its $312.5 million contribution, with a decision scheduled for December 17. Previous delays in the bond votes, exacerbated by hurricanes, have raised uncertainties about the stadium's future. Mayor Ken Welch's administration has been scrutinized for the abrupt scheduling, as it comes after several conflicting statements from the Rays' management. Despite the challenges, supporters like Chris Steinocher remain hopeful about the Rays' future in St. Petersburg.