My name is Jim Williams, and I am the Managing Editor for News and Sports Talk Florida. I have been closely monitoring your efforts to negotiate a fair deal that advantages both the constituents you represent and the Tampa Bay Rays, recognizing that you are at a crucial juncture in finalizing the agreement.

As a featured columnist for the Washington Examiner, I have chronicled the relocation of the Cleveland Browns to Baltimore and the Montreal Expos’ move to Washington, D.C. In doing so, I’ve reviewed numerous contracts and attended more public hearings, city, and council meetings than I can recall. I advise considering the long-term rather than the short-term because both the Ravens in Baltimore and the Nationals in Washington have demonstrated success on the field and in their influence on the local area adding countless millions to both the areas where they are located but their respective cities they represent.

I was raised in Lutz, attended Chamberlain High School and USF, and worked at WTOG. I witnessed both Tampa and St. Petersburg’s initial efforts to introduce baseball to the area, well before the idea of constructing a dome in St. Pete was conceived. Thus, I am well-versed in the history of the battle to secure a baseball team.

I respect the work you do and the position you hold at this pivotal time. Despite sports owners sometimes being difficult to handle, I believe that both the Rays and MLB are eager to finalize this deal. In fact, I think MLB is particularly keen on seeing the Rays seal this agreement. This is the closest all parties have come to concluding the deal. I am hopeful and confident that you can achieve what has not been accomplished before by making this happen. Although it will be challenging now, five or ten years down the line, it may well be regarded as one of your greatest achievements.

Lastly, the suggestions I offer you are mine and do not reflect the ownership of Sports or News Talk Florida.

Good luck and have a nice holiday sea