Two Oakland city council members, Rebecca Kaplan and Kevin Jenkins, have sent a letter to Oakland Athletics president Dave Kaval expressing their concerns over the team’s decision to block a minor league game by the Oakland Ballers at the Coliseum.
The Ballers, an independent team, had a signed agreement and paid deposit for the June 29 game, but the A’s vetoed the plan without explanation.
Kaplan and Jenkins, who also serve on the Alameda County Coliseum Authority Board, are seeking a prompt explanation and highlighting the negative impact on the community, including lost jobs and revenue.
They argue that the A’s decision denies the community a chance to enjoy a community-oriented event and negatively affects local jobs and revenue.
The council members are working to increase revenue at the Coliseum and have successfully used funds to support important projects, including fixing 911 Dispatch issues.
They hope to find a solution that benefits everyone involved. The situation has sparked frustration among fans, who are organizing their own “FansFest” on Feb. 24. The Stockton Ports, the A’s Single-A affiliate, have been announced as a sponsor.
The A’s decision comes as the team prepares to leave Oakland for Las Vegas, with their lease at the Coliseum expiring in 2024.
The move has left uncertainty about the team’s future in Oakland, and the council members are pushing for a solution that benefits the community. They have requested a response from Kaval by Friday and plan to discuss the situation at their upcoming board meeting.
The dispute highlights the tension between the A’s and the community, with fans feeling frustrated and neglected. The council members’ letter is a push for a more community-focused approach, and a solution that benefits everyone involved.
As the situation reveals, fans and community members will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that keeps baseball in Oakland.