During a recent government meeting in St. Petersburg, community members expressed strong opposition to a proposed development deal involving the construction of a new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays. Critics highlighted concerns that the agreement does not guarantee the construction of affordable housing and could perpetuate existing racial and economic disparities in a city noted for its segregation.

One speaker emphasized the urgent need for public investment in community development, arguing that the current deal prioritizes corporate interests over the needs of residents. \"The people are so much more important than anything that a corporation can potentially commit to,\" they stated, urging council members to vote against expediting the deal.

Another resident, Carrie Mueller, called for more time to review the development agreement, citing numerous unanswered questions and potential red flags. She pointed out that the agreement lacks provisions for disadvantaged business set-asides and fails to include commitments for sustainable building practices, such as LEED certification.

Rebecca Pinkenberry, a long-time homeowner in the city, echoed these sentiments, questioning the financial implications of the deal for taxpayers. She raised concerns about the lack of public open space, the city's financial responsibilities for infrastructure, and the absence of guarantees regarding the future of the Rays under new ownership.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for transparency and accountability in local governance, as residents urged council members to thoroughly evaluate the implications of the development agreement before proceeding with a vote. The discussions reflect broader community anxieties about equitable development and the prioritization of public resources in St. Petersburg.