Nevada could be on the verge of funding a new NFL Stadium during this special session of the Nevada Legislature.
The Oakland Raiders, but for how long?
Not for long if Scout.com’s Joe Arrigo is accurate. Arrigo, who broke the original story on this back in April, said that Nevada lawmakers will pass the 750 million in public funds for a NFL Stadium. He believes what we will see for the next few days will be political posturing.
This is inline with what my other sources are saying as well, but not all. More on that below.
Should this happen, expect Clark County to vote to enact their part of the proposal. There is also an NFL Owners meeting on October 18th. The timing on this is important as Mark wants to present the approved plan to the NFL Owners. This will allow them three months to consider it, before they will vote on the relocation in January.
Nevada Expected to Pass 750 Million in Funding for NFL Stadium
Jason Cole, of Bleacher Report, was in “pump the brakes” mode. He said his NFL sources said there is still a lot to do. He also tweeted about the revenue split between Mark Davis and Sheldon Adelson, per the NFL, being something that requires further negotiation. Jon Ralston, political analyst for KTLV , agreed that lawmakers were not close to a deal.
Then the heavy hitters came in. Casino industry giants and the AFL-CIO in full support.
Steve Wynn of Wynn Resorts had this to say before the Nevada Legislators.
“I personally believe that if we lose this opportunity, it will be one of the most heartbreaking mistakes we’ve ever made.”
Then came former Las Vegas Mayor, and current Caesars Entertainment Executive Vice President Jan Jones Blackhurst.
“We’ve been offered a gift that takes us from 45 million visitors, to 55, to 65 million visitors.”
MGM Resorts International CEO Jim Murren had this to say.
“You might come to the conclusion that MGM would be opposed to both of the projects before you. In fact, the exact opposite is true. We know the entire community benefits when our convention center is full.”
A vast majority of Nevada lawmakers gave huge ovations to these speakers.
Not only that but the Nevada Taxpayers Association, rescinded their opposition earlier in the day. Without their presence, there was little in the way of vocal opposition.
From what I am seeing and hearing, Nevada lawmakers seem to be on the verge of making this happen. In fact this could be all wrapped up by weeks end. After that, NFL Owners will decide in January.
Since there was no vote, Nevada Lawmakers will be back in session first thing tomorrow morning.
