The debate over the Cleveland Browns’ future home stadium took another turn, as Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb plans to invoke the Art Modell Law to challenge the team’s relocation plans.
According to Fox 8 News, Bibb is drafting a letter to team owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam, urging them to comply with Ohio law and give local authorities the chance to purchase the team before moving it.
The Art Modell Law, enacted in 1996 after the Browns’ controversial relocation to Baltimore, prohibits a professional sports team from leaving a tax-supported facility without either an agreement with local authorities or providing six months’ notice and an opportunity for the community to buy the team.
Bibb claims the Haslams have failed to meet these requirements.
The Haslams are moving forward with plans for a domed stadium in Brook Park, including progress on a mixed-use development project. They have also filed a federal lawsuit seeking clarification on the Modell Law.
Meanwhile, Cleveland officials are determined to keep the team playing downtown by invoking their rights under the law.
