I’m not especially in the mood to write about stadium news after what happened yesterday afternoon. But the world doesn’t stop after a tragedy, even if it feels like it should, so let’s press ahead…
I didn’t get a chance to write about it yesterday, but Chicago Cubs owner Tom Ricketts and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel reportedly reached an agreement for a “framework” for the renovation of Wrigley Field late Sunday night. Said Emanuel in a written statement:
“For nearly a century, Wrigley Field has been a cherished institution in Chicago and the Wrigleyville community, as well as a cathedral of baseball. This framework allows the Cubs to restore the Friendly Confines and pursue their economic goals, while respecting the rights and quality of life of its neighbors. … It will have a long-lasting positive effect on Chicago.”
Nobody involved actually released any details about what they agreed to, though the Chicago Tribune reported that “sources” said the Cubs would seek a 5,000-square-foot video board in left field, double the size of the hand-operated scoreboard in center. But at least both sides have finally reached a compromise and we won’t have to put up with more public squabbling over—
Emboldened by the framework of an agreement with City Hall to rebuild Wrigley Field, Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts has unveiled a long list of demands as the finer points are ironed out in the coming months.
Ricketts wants a property tax break reserved for those who renovate historic landmarks. He doesn’t want to pay the city for expanding the ballpark onto public sidewalks and streets. He plans to push for as much electronic advertising inside and outside the stadium as possible. And he’d like the city to crack down on street peddlers and performers, neighborhood billboards that conflict with the team’s sponsors and rooftop attendance.
Okay, so apparently by “agreement” the two sides just meant that they agreed to agree on what they agree on, and to disagree on what they don’t. There are still tons of community and zoning hearings to go before all this becomes official, so hopefully before any final votes are taken, Chicago officials will know what it is they’re actually voting for.
Love this quote from the Trib: “I want to go forward with the assumption that there will be lots of community meetings, lots of discussions, and we will end up with this plan,” Ricketts said at a news conference at the ballpark. “And that’s the way we look at it.”
Translation: We’re going to let you speak to humor you and pretend we care, but we really don’t give a shit what you say and ultimately rich people are making the decisions and we’re going to do whatever the fuck we want.
“… so hopefully before any final votes are taken, Chicago officials will know what it is they’re actually voting for.”
Neil, that has NEVER stopped the City Council from voting “yes.” See the Parking Meter Deal the Council voted on under Daley, found to be an ATROCIOUS deal for the citizens of Chicago…and oh hey, the City Council readily admit, they didn’t read it!!! Didn’t stop them from voting to approve it though!!!
I said “know,” not “care.”