Cleveland Council reviews $16.2M stadium budget amid rising property taxes and repairs

The Cleveland City Council's Finance, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee convened on February 24, 2025, to discuss the budget for the upcoming year, focusing on expenditures related to the Cleveland Browns Stadium and the Westside Market.

A significant topic of discussion was the budget allocation for the Cleveland Browns Stadium, which is set at $16.2 million for the year. This figure includes various costs such as property taxes, insurance, and capital repairs. The council members expressed concerns about the rising costs associated with maintaining the stadium, particularly noting a substantial increase in the professional services line item due to a mandated capital assessment that occurs every five years. This assessment is crucial for determining necessary repairs and enhancements requested by the Browns.

Councilman Polincic highlighted the importance of transparency regarding the financial commitments to the stadium, emphasizing that the public often lacks understanding of the ongoing costs. He noted that the city pays for the stadium's insurance and property taxes, which have increased significantly due to recent property reappraisals. The council is also looking into whether the city appealed these tax assessments, as many residents do.

In addition to the stadium budget, the committee discussed the Westside Market's financial situation. The market is currently receiving a subsidy from the general fund, which has increased due to higher operational costs. Council members raised concerns about the market's management and the need for better financial oversight, especially given the rising expenses compared to previous years. The council is seeking detailed financial reports to ensure accountability and to understand the market's revenue generation capabilities.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to scrutinizing budget allocations and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively, particularly in light of rising costs associated with city-owned facilities. The discussions will continue as the council seeks to finalize the budget and address the community's concerns regarding transparency and fiscal responsibility.