Part 4/7:
Underlying this financial quagmire is a complex relationship teetering on distrust. Local commissioner Chris Latvala's public statements highlight a significant lack of faith in Rays owner Stu Sternberg. His skepticism revolves around whether the Rays, amid financial strains, are genuinely committed to the proposed deal or if they might be seeking an exit.
Latvala's questioning of the claimed cost overruns raises eyebrows as well—many commentators have brought attention to the fact that short delays typically do not generate massive financial repercussions. He and former St. Petersburg mayor Bill Foster both contend that the Rays’ threats to walk away or seek alternative funding are largely unfounded and even seen as tactics intended to gain leverage in negotiations.