During a recent city council meeting in St. Petersburg, residents voiced strong concerns regarding a proposed development deal involving the Tampa Bay Rays and its implications for affordable housing and community welfare.

Carrie Mueller, a member of the advocacy group Dream Defenders, highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing in the city, arguing that the current deal prioritizes real estate developers over the needs of residents. She emphasized that many community members feel unsafe due to rising living costs and lack of housing security. Mueller urged the council to reconsider the deal, stating it does not guarantee affordable housing units and could exacerbate existing segregation issues in St. Petersburg.

Another speaker, Carrie Mueller from Campbell Park, echoed these sentiments, calling for more time to review the development agreement. She pointed out several red flags, including the lack of provisions for disadvantaged workers and businesses in the construction phase, and questioned why the city is shouldering the financial burden of infrastructure costs. She expressed concern that the deal does not adequately address community benefits and urged the council to delay the vote until these issues are resolved.

Rebecca Pinkenberry, a long-time resident and taxpayer, also raised critical questions about the deal, including the valuation of the land, the limited public open space, and the financial responsibilities of the Rays versus the city. She urged the council to ensure that the development aligns with sustainable practices and the city’s commitment to clean energy.

Overall, the meeting underscored a growing tension between community needs and corporate interests, with residents calling for transparency and accountability in the development process. The council faces pressure to address these concerns before moving forward with the deal.