Wisconsin governor signs off on $500 million plan to fund repairs and upgrades at Brewers stadium

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Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has given his approval to a $500 million plan aimed at financing the repair and enhancement of the Brewers’ stadium. This decision comes after extensive negotiations and discussions behind closed doors.

The bipartisan package, which received the governor’s signature at the American Family Field, signifies a compromise reached between the baseball team and the general public. Governor Evers emphasized the importance of the plan, asserting that it secures the Milwaukee Brewers’ presence in the city for nearly three more decades. The official signing took place on a stage situated at home plate.

The Brewers have emphasized the urgent need for substantial renovations to their 22-year-old stadium. The scope of work includes replacing the stadium’s glass outfield doors, seats, and concourses, upgrading luxury suites and the video scoreboard, as well as addressing the retractable roof, fire suppression systems, parking facilities, elevators, and escalators.

Team officials had previously cautioned lawmakers that without public assistance, they might consider relocating from Milwaukee. Faced with the prospect of losing substantial tax revenue, legislators began crafting a subsidy package back in September.

As is often the case, debates surrounding the allocation of public funds to professional sports teams tend to be contentious. Notably, the Brewers’ principal owner, Mark Attanasio, is reported to have an estimated net worth of $700 million, according to Yahoo Finance, and the team itself holds an approximate valuation of $1.6 billion, according to Forbes.

Critics, including several legislators from the Milwaukee area, argued that the Brewers were undeserving of public support, advocating instead for the allocation of tax dollars to programs aimed at benefiting the community.

The legislative package underwent several revisions as lawmakers sought ways to minimize the public subsidy. The final bill signed by Governor Evers stipulates a state contribution of $365.8 million to be distributed in annual installments until 2050, with the city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County jointly providing $135 million.

Additionally, the legislation introduces surcharges on tickets for non-baseball events held at the stadium, such as rock concerts or monster truck rallies, with these surcharges expected to generate $20.7 million in revenue.

In return, the Brewers have committed to investing $110 million and extending their lease at the stadium until 2050, thereby ensuring that Major League Baseball remains in its smallest market for the next 27 years.

The bill received strong support in the Legislature, with the Assembly passing it by a vote of 72-26 and the Senate following suit with a 19-14 vote.

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