D-backs President & CEO Derrick Hall yesterday said that the franchise "wants the city of Phoenix to replace Maricopa County as Chase Field's landlord," noting that it would ensure the team's "long-term future in downtown," according to a front-page piece by Craig Harris of the ARIZONA REPUBLIC. Hall confirmed that a swap would give the D-backs, "currently at odds with the county over stadium enhancements, an opportunity to have the ballpark renovated or to get a new facility by taking advantage of the city's municipal bonding authority." The Maricopa County Stadium District, an arm of county government, operates the ballpark but "does not have any ability to raise taxes" to help the team. Hall said that the county "nixed the plan" four years ago, adding that county officials "were worried about losing their tickets, suite and free parking." Hall said that there "currently are no negotiations taking place" for Phoenix to run the ballpark. He said that the D-backs with the plan would "assume responsibility" for all $187M in "projected repairs and enhancements needed at Chase Field over the next 12 years, the balance of a 30-year lease that began" in '98. The team also "would significantly lower its rent," now more than $4M a year. While addressing ticket holders, Hall also "referenced a proposed sports mecca in downtown Phoenix." Such a plan would "include new facilities" for the D-backs, Suns, Coyotes and Arizona State. But Harris notes it is "unclear whether the city would be willing to take over operation of the ballpark." Although the team "has not identified specific renovations needed now, it has said it is concerned there is not enough money should a major malfunction occur." County officials have said that the current deal "is favorable to taxpayers" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 4/11).
