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Sarpy County board approves agreement with the Omaha Royals

By Katie Knapp

Papillion, NE – The Sarpy County Board of Commissioners has approved a Stadium Use and Lease Agreement with the Omaha Royals.

Commissioners voted 4-1 Tuesday afternoon in favor of the agreement after hearing nearly an hour of public comments. Among the supporters were the Mayors of Bellevue, Papillion, LaVista, Gretna, and Springfield, who all said they support the concept. All the Mayors expressed concern about financing and how legislation could affect the cities in Sarpy County. Opponents voiced concerns about financing and whether property taxes will rise.

Omaha Royals owner Alan Stein says the agreement is the first step. Both sides have until April 22nd to select three site finalists for a new stadium. Stein says he's very confident the Royals will play in Sarpy County beginning in 2011.

Sarpy County Board Chairman Joni Jones says residents will have many more opportunities to speak about the stadium plan.