SALEM — Governor Tina Kotek and the incoming Trail Blazers owner, Tom Dundon, are in talks about the team’s future. Dundon’s group has a deal to purchase the Portland NBA team from Paul Allen’s estate for $4.25 billion. Approval from the NBA’s Board of Governors is expected this spring.
Kotek describes Dundon as “a very straightforward guy.” She believes he wants to work closely with the community, not move the team. Yet, the team’s future hinges on local government funding for renovations at the Moda Center.
Recently, Kotek rallied with officials in support of Senate Bill 1501. This bill aims to redirect public dollars towards a $600 million renovation project. Proponents see it as essential for securing a long-term lease at the Moda Center, especially since last year’s temporary lease runs only until 2030. Some worry that if the Blazers leave, Portland might face a repeat of Seattle’s loss of the SuperSonics.
House Majority Leader Ben Bowman emphasized the importance of foresight when investing in such institutions. He noted that many other cities would be eager to follow if the Blazers left.
Kotek has spoken to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, highlighting Portland’s commitment to keeping the team. While she hasn’t received specific guarantees, Silver’s feedback seemed positive.
Senate President Rob Wagner introduced the bill, which is a priority for lawmakers as they tackle other pressing state issues. Senator Kate Lieber called the bill a necessary first step, indicating that future bonding would be needed to fund the project fully.
The state’s plan involves collaborating with the city to negotiate a new long-term lease. The proposal seeks to redirect income taxes from players and performers to help pay for the renovations. The aim is to create a 20-year lease agreement that matches the loan repayment timeline.
Kotek argues that investing in the arena is about future growth, not merely preserving the past. The Moda Center is not just home to the Blazers; it hosts over 230 events yearly, providing jobs for roughly 4,500 people.
Multnomah County is stepping up, offering $88 million for the renovation through taxes, which reflects an increase from earlier commitments. Portland plans to contribute $120 million as well, though the specifics of how that funding will be sourced remain unclear. Some officials have expressed concerns about using clean energy funds for this project.
Senate Republican leader Bruce Starr questioned the rationale behind the shorter lease being proposed compared to the original 30-year lease of the then-Rose Garden, built in 1995 with less public investment. Trail Blazers president Dewayne Hankins responded that modern arenas typically require a shorter lease because renovations can sustain them for about 20 years.
In a broader context, cities across the U.S. face similar challenges in maintaining and upgrading sports facilities. A recent report from the Sports Business Journal indicated that local government funding for sports arenas has become increasingly contentious as cities balance budgets and other priorities.
At the heart of this conversation is the belief that investing in the Blazers and the Moda Center is not just about basketball; it’s about economic vitality and community pride. Keeping the team could mean greater opportunities for Portland’s growth and development in the coming years.
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