Cleveland Sports Teams Seek Public Funding for Upgrades

Wealthy owners propose new plan to tap into state funds for stadium renovations.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The owners of Cleveland's professional sports teams, including the Browns, Cavaliers, and Guardians, have devised a new strategy to secure public funding for upgrades and renovations to their stadiums and arenas. Despite the teams' owners being among the wealthiest individuals in the region, they are pushing for access to unclaimed state funds to help finance the projects.

Why it matters

This move by Cleveland's sports team owners highlights the ongoing debate over the use of public money to support privately-owned professional sports franchises. While the teams argue the upgrades are necessary to remain competitive, critics contend that wealthy owners should finance such improvements themselves rather than relying on taxpayer dollars.

The details

The plan proposed by the team owners would allow them to access a pool of unclaimed state funds that have accumulated over the years. They argue this money should be directed towards improving the city's aging sports facilities, which they say are necessary to retain and attract top talent. However, some local officials and advocacy groups have pushed back, questioning why billionaire owners need public assistance for private business ventures.

  • The team owners unveiled their proposal in February 2026.

The players

Cleveland Browns

The NFL franchise that plays in Cleveland.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The NBA franchise that plays in Cleveland.

Cleveland Guardians

The MLB franchise that plays in Cleveland.

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What they’re saying

“These upgrades are critical to ensuring our teams remain competitive and continue to bring economic activity and civic pride to Cleveland.”

— Jimmy Haslam, Owner, Cleveland Browns (Cleveland.com)

“Using public funds to finance private sports franchises is a misuse of taxpayer money that could be better spent on community needs.”

— Samantha Rodriguez, Advocacy Director, Progress Ohio (Cleveland Plain Dealer)

What’s next

The proposal will be reviewed by state legislators, who will decide whether to approve access to the unclaimed funds for the stadium renovations.

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing tension between the desire to support local sports teams and the concern over using public money to finance private business interests of wealthy team owners.