Democrats to discuss PawSox proposal at closed-door caucus
By The Associated Press
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ Democrats will discuss the Pawtucket Red Sox stadium proposal at a closed-door caucus.
House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello called for the caucus Wednesday. Mattiello spokesman Larry Berman says other topics, including the budget, will be discussed at the meeting.
The new owners of the Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox are asking for a deal that would give them about $120 million in state subsidies over 30 years if they build a ballpark in downtown Providence.
Mattiello has hired Smith College economics professor Andrew Zimbalist to evaluate the proposal. Zimbalist is also a consultant for major league baseball’s commissioner’s office.
Several lawmakers said ahead of the caucus they are opposed to the initial proposal but are willing to hear about alternatives that would be better for the state and taxpayers.
(C) The Associated Press 2015
