Owner of Portland Timbers says Moda Center negotiations are a ‘wake up call’ for regional leaders

Key Points:

• Merritt Paulson, owner of Portland’s MLS team, stated that the Trail Blazers "can’t" leave Portland, emphasizing their importance to the city's culture and economy amid ongoing negotiations over Moda Center renovations.
• Paulson highlighted the responsibility of team owners to invest in the cities they operate in, while also urging city leaders to address challenges that make Portland a difficult place for businesses.
• Blazers owner Tom Dundon is seeking approximately $600 million in public funds for Moda Center upgrades, with the city demanding assurances the team will not relocate.
• Paulson noted that $145 million in private investments have been made at Providence Park, home to the Timbers, but acknowledged further improvements are needed for the aging facility.
• While Paulson stopped short of endorsing public funding for the Moda Center, he called for local leaders to make the region more attractive for investment to support business success.