A Portland politician expressed that the city’s recent negotiation offer to the Trail Blazers was rejected due to significant gaps in discussions about arena lease terms. Blazers president Dwayne Hankins indicated that a decision on attending an upcoming City Council meeting had not been made, citing recent talks with city staff. City Council President Jamie Dunphy criticized Hankins for relying on outdated information, stating that he had invited the Blazers to address concerns over a draft term sheet.
The City Council is set to vote on a 20-year lease for the Moda Center on August 12. The Blazers’ new owner, Tom Dundon, is willing to sign a deal, provided nearly $575 million in public funds is allocated. The state had previously approved $365 million for renovations, contingent on the city and county contributing an additional $208 million, with the council holding $120 million of that sum.
There have been ongoing negotiations since March, but key issues like taxes and rent were omitted from the draft term sheet. Although the city included a $3 million annual payment and a labor agreement prioritizing union hiring, Dunphy noted a lack of communication from the Blazers on their concerns. He emphasized the need for transparency regarding public funding, expressing frustration over their perceived reluctance to collaborate. Hankins, meanwhile, stated that he prefers to negotiate privately rather than through media channels.
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