CLEVELAND (WJW) — Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne responded to changes in a budget bill by Ohio lawmakers that could allow the Cleveland Browns to move to Brook Park.
The FOX 8 I-TEAM learned early Wednesday that state lawmakers were looking to change the Modell Law, and that could make it easier for the Browns to move a dome in Brook Park.
The Modell Law is a state law that restricts sports teams from moving.
The I-Team learned state lawmakers voted on a measure Wednesday afternoon to allow teams to move if they stay within the same state. The Ohio Senate passed the Biennial Operating Budget before 5 p.m., with the House doing the same just before 6 p.m.
The legislation now goes to Gov. Mike DeWine’s desk for his signature.
House and Senate leaders met into the wee hours of the morning on a budget bill, and a brief mention of one amendment stood out.
At one point, State Senator Jerry Cirino listed “several amendments” including allow sports teams to relocate in certain situations.”
Nothing more was said on the matter at the hearing, which went on until 1:20 a.m.
The overnight meeting went on at length largely listing amendments and tweaks to a new proposed State budget bill affecting everything from changes to taxes to funding for schools to funding which would help the Browns build a dome.
A State House leader, yesterday, confirmed the proposal includes $600 million dollars for the Browns coming from the Unclaimed Funds account.
In response, Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne called an afternoon press conference after 3:30 p.m.
Ronayne said that legislative leaders appear to be losing touch with this new budget.
“Instead of listening to their constituents, they listened to Jimmy and Dee Haslam,” he said. “They line their pockets with your dollars, with your unclaimed funds, specifically.”
Ronayne continued to ask people to check their unclaimed funds, and continued to call the situation a “boondoggle.”
“The Modell Law was changed in this budget, while an active court case is going on,” he said. “It’s a curious thing when they change a law, essentially changed the rules … It’s a sad day.”
Ronayne said the governor is the last line of defense and he hopes Gov. Mike DeWine will veto part of the budget.
“We’re not hearing people in droves saying they want a stadium in Brook Park,” he said.
Money left behind in old bank accounts and insurance policies and more.
The Haslam Sports Group would pay back the money.
Still, some lawmakers don’t like using unclaimed funds for this, and some argue state law does not allow for this. Lawmakers behind it believe they are on solid ground with the plan.
Yet, some lawyers are considering filing a class-action lawsuit to prevent it.
The city of Cleveland has filed in Cuyahoga County Court to enforce the Modell Law and block the Browns move. It would give the city a chance to find new owners for the team.
City Hall spokesperson Tyler Sinclair released a statement to the I-Team that read:
“We are very troubled and angered by this late-night change, added without public scrutiny, regarding the Modell Law. We strongly oppose this legislative maneuver because Clevelanders have invested hundreds of millions in the lakefront stadium and surrounding infrastructure. This proposed change fails to protect communities like us when a team decides to leave. Moving the Browns — whether 12 miles or across the country — is a betrayal of the city and residents who have stood by the franchise for generations.”
Brook Park Mayor Edward Orcutt released the following statement:
“I extend my appreciation for the Ohio General Assembly’s approval of 5600M in funding for the new Cleveland Browns domed stadium. This funding method is fiscally responsible and allows us to make this vision a reality without adding to the state’s debt.
“The Browns are part of the fabric of our Region. I am thrilled to see the state recognize the team’s importance to our identity and our economy. This is a transformational investment that will ripple across Northeast Ohio, creating jobs, boosting tourism, and reinforcing our region’s attractiveness.
“This is more than just a stadium. We are creating a community where people can live, work, visit, and enjoy all year round. Brook Park is committed to being a true partner with the Haslam Sports Group, in creating a framework for a bold, multi-use investment.
“I am already working with Brook Park City Leaders and private investors to establish a Planned Unit Development (PUD) District on the 176 acres located on Snow Road. This newly created District will provide the flexibility to cultivate an environment that welcomes fans, engages the community, and attracts future visitors to Northeast Ohio.
“I believe, with Brook Park situated just minutes from downtown Cleveland and directly connected by major highways, regional transit rail, and airport infrastructure, the new stadium will enhance regional collaboration and economic development. Brook Park is proud to stand behind this project and welcomes the energy and opportunity it will bring to Cuyahoga County and Northeast Ohio.”
The Browns have filed in Federal Court to have the Modell Law thrown out.
Wednesday evening, a Haslam Sports Group spokesperson released a statement to the I-Team regarding the Modell Law amendment that read:
The General Assembly’s amendment of the Modell Law confirms that the law is intended only to prevent teams from breaking a lease or leaving the state. The Browns are doing neither of those things. The team is staying right here in Cuyahoga County, less than a mile from the city line, and HSG will honor every commitment of the Browns’ current lease. HSG will always maintain its commitment to Northeast Ohio, as the private investment of more than $2 billion in the new enclosed Huntington Bank Field stadium and adjacent mixed-use development in Brook Park shows.
