The Trail Blazers and the city of Portland finally met face to face about renovating the Moda Center and keeping the franchise in town.
It apparently didn’t go especially well.
City council president Jamie Dunphy described the gap between the sides as “pretty significant,” while Jason Quick of The Athletic reported that the discussions became hostile at times.
The disagreement goes well beyond the cost of fixing up an aging arena.
Portland has discussed contributing $120 million toward an estimated $575 million renovation package involving the city, county and state. The Blazers want more public support and made clear they don’t intend to supply additional private money, according to Dirk VanderHart of Oregon Public Broadcasting.
Team president of business operations Dewayne Hankins also raised broader concerns about operating in Portland.
“The arena is only a small piece of that bigger picture,” Hankins said. “Portland’s current stagnant business climate, high income taxes and divisive political environment make this a tough city to invest in.”
Hankins said those conditions make it more difficult to sell tickets, attract corporate partners and recruit players.
The Blazers are also seeking protection from potential litigation involving a lease clause requiring them to maintain the Moda Center “in a first-class manner.” Team officials reportedly fear that providing a detailed list of needed repairs could later be used as evidence that they violated the agreement.
Mayor Keith Wilson attempted to calm those concerns.
“We are not contemplating suing the Blazers, Rip City Management or other parties,” Wilson said.
Another sticking point is a proposed $3 million annual fee intended to offset property taxes the organization doesn’t pay. The Blazers contend that would further increase their financial obligations.
None of this means the team is moving. It does mean the possibility is becoming more difficult to dismiss.
The city council is scheduled to vote Aug. 12 on funding related to the project. If that money isn’t approved, the Blazers could begin exploring relocation.
The bottom line is that both sides say they want the team to remain in Portland. They just don’t appear close to agreeing on what that will cost.
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