Portland City Council gets an earful as it contemplates Moda Center deal

Key Points:

• Portland City Council held a three-hour public hearing with mixed opinions on spending roughly $400 million in public funds to renovate the Moda Center, aiming to keep the Trail Blazers in the city for 20 more years.
• New team owner Tom Dundon was widely criticized by speakers, described as uncooperative and a negative influence in negotiations, though some urged the city to prioritize keeping the team despite his stance.
• The draft term sheet proposes a $120 million upfront city payment, up to $275 million for maintenance over 20 years, a $3 million annual fee to compensate for lost property taxes, and labor-related conditions, but the Blazers have rejected the terms without suggesting alternatives.
• Several councilors plan to propose amendments to secure better financial and community benefits, including increased ticket surcharges, higher fees, more charitable giving, and fairer concession pricing, with a final vote expected on August 12.
• Public testimony reflected a divide between passionate Blazers supporters and critics wary of committing large public funds to a billionaire-owned team, highlighting the challenge the council faces in balancing economic, social, and cultural interests.