With a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in place, officials in Fayetteville are now focused on developing a funding model for a new downtown ballpark.
The last few weeks have brought some positive momentum for Fayetteville’s ballpark plan. The MOU with the Houston Astros was unanimously approved by the city council last week, and on Monday Minor League Baseball officially announced the shift of two California League franchises to the Carolina League. Both of those developments came after a significant decision was made to cap the ballpark’s cost at $33 million, down from what was originally indicated.
Now it is a matter of the city and Cumberland County finalizing a funding model. Both sides are interested contributing to the ballpark, but there is still some work to be done, according to Fayetteville mayor pro term Mitch Colvin. More from the Fayetteville Observer:
“We’re trying to put together some financial models that make sure this has the least impact on citizens … without any increase in taxes,” he said. “We’re just working out the details with the county on that.”
Melissa Cardinali, assistant county manager for finance and administrative services, and Vicki Evans, the county’s finance director, were in the meeting.
County commissioners Glenn Adams and Jimmy Keefe serve on the committee with Colvin, Fayetteville Mayor Nat Robertson and councilmen Jim Arp, Kirk deViere and Larry Wright.
The committee is to deliver its recommendations in a joint session between the city and county on September 6.
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