On election day, Twins await decision in Lee County
By Paula Minell
Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE
While the country awaits the results of the presidential race, the state awaits the results of amendment voting, and communities all over watch for the results for a variety of offices and issues, the Minnesota Twins are keeping a close eye on voting results in Lee County. Fort Myers in Lee County is the home of Hammond Stadium and Lee County Sports Complex, where the Twins hold spring training.
Tuesday isn't just Election Day, but also decision day in Ft.Myers, FL as Lee County Board votes on renovations for @Twins spring home.
— Dave St. Peter (@TwinsPrez) November 5, 2012
The measure is on the agenda for the Lee County Commissioners’ meeting scheduled for November 6, not on the general ballot for the popular vote. A memo dated October 24, 2012 details the proposed plan. Some of the highlights include:
- Increased seating capacity to 9300
- Clubhouse expansion
- Upgrades to the training facilities
- Changing the field layout to match Target Field
- New video board
- Dormitory space
The Twins would directly fund the dormitory space, while all other improvements would be funded by Lee County through various means, including tourism taxes and an increase in the Twins’ rent. The agreement would guarantee the Twins would remain in Lee County for 30 years and have two additional 10-year options as part of the deal.
Fort Myers is also the home of the Boston Red Sox, who hold spring training at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Lee County would also like the Washington Nationals to call the City of Palms Park their spring training home field.
Twins President Dave St. Peter tweeted from Fort Myers on Monday, and presumably is in town to await the results of the meeting of the Lee County Board of Commissions.