07 (4)
Jennifer L. Hall
From:Sergio Dimas <
Sent:Sunday, September 27, 2020 2:48 PM
To:Loretta Day
Subject:Item 7 Agenda September 29, 2020
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Hello City Coucil,
I am deeply concerned with the negotiation process and ultimately the agreement that is now on the table before the
council. As an Anaheim resident, I know having Angel Baseball is key part of our city’s brand and image to the rest of the
world. Having a Major League Baseball (MLB) team is a source of great pride, and I know many other cities would be
eager to welcome the Angels into their fold. It is critical that our city negotiate a contract to keep the team playing here.
It appears that the city council has achieved this, but it has been done behind closed doors and under unjust terms.
I hope you are aware that contracts do not have to be negotiated in good faith, rather, only once you are in a contract
you must act in good faith. Parties to a contract negotiate seeking to maximize their own benefit from the exchange at
hand. Does the city council really think SRB has negotiated with the greater good of Anaheim in mind? For that manner,
the Mayor has not always behaved himself in a manner that instills 100% confidence in his commitment to Anaheim’s
residents.
It is disappointing that the city has not revoked their offer and reworked it in light of the current situation we are
experiencing. The Disneyland Resort, Honda Center, Anaheim Convention Center, or Angel Stadium do not appear to be
reopening any time soon. The budget shortfall will only grow with these huge economic drivers sitting on the sidelines.
While, we cannot hope to get all that money back, even when these venues are all open, we can mitigate. The city is
facing an estimated budget shortfall of 100 million dollars. The stadium deal presents a unique opportunity to recoup
some of the losses. The current discount (through tax breaks etc.) the city is giving SRB, is approximately 175 million
dollars from the original negotiations in December. This money is more than enough to address the currently reported
budget shortfalls. If the shortfall grows, this kind of money will help keep the city’s budget from falling into a deeper
hole. If you must insist on granting the discount, you could reduce the amount, and still go a long ways to addressing
the budget situation!
Instead, of giving SRB (really Arte Moreno) a major discount, why not charge a fair price. The Samueli’s (literally
across the way from Angel Stadium) were certainly capable and willing to pay, why is SRB not willing to do so? It’s time
for the city council to stand for the people of Anaheim. You can keep our team, and address some of our budget issues
in one go. Take a look at your problems, get creative and address them. You’re elected to look after the public welfare,
not private interests.
Sincerely,
Sergio Dimas
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