Sources said that Redskins Owner Dan Snyder is viewed as a "major sticking point" in extension talksGETTY IMAGES
DC's bid for a "long-term lease extension" for the land surrounding the RFK Stadium site that would have "allowed for development of the 190-acre federal parcel" was ultimately "omitted from the massive federal spending bill that was approved last week," according to DeBonis, Clarke & Nirappil of the WASHINGTON POST. Because it "probably was the final 'must-pass' bill that Congress will consider for months," the Redskins will have "limited opportunities to get access to the land through such channels." Three congressional officials said that there was a "push this month to include an RFK lease extension in the year-end spending package," but after "private discussion, it was omitted." The sources said that U.S. Rep. Raul M. Grijalva (D-Ariz.) was "among the roadblocks" because he "feared that tucking a lease extension in an appropriations bill would set a bad precedent." Sources said that another "major sticking point" is Redskins Owner Dan Snyder. Many "oppose signing off on any measure" that would give Snyder "access to public funds or assets" (WASHINGTON POST, 12/22).
