Mayor defends $100 million lakefront deal as a bold, pragmatic move to protect taxpayers and open the door to a stronger, year-round Cleveland.
Min. Dale Edwards Executive Director, Call and Post
In a moment of raw honesty and conviction, Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb made it clear—he was willing to take the political hit for doing what he believes is right for the city’s future. Critics have accused the mayor of “selling out” after the $100 million agreement with the Haslam Sports Group fell short of what some hoped would be a $300 million package. But Bibb said the decision was rooted not in politics, but in protection—of Cleveland’s taxpayers, its financial stability, and its long-term destiny.
“I was not going to accept the hit of leaving our destiny and our taxpayers at risk to the courts and a legislature that continues to undermine what we’re trying to do in the city of Cleveland,” Bibb said passionately. “Now imagine this conversation if we would’ve kept fighting and got zero—empty-handed. That’s not leadership. That’s gambling with our city’s future.” Bibb emphasized that his team, alongside Jones Day attorneys and city development director Mark, fought hard to secure every dollar.
The $100 million deal, he said, represents a smart and sustainable foundation for transforming Cleveland’s waterfront into a vibrant, year-round destination—one that benefits residents far beyond the 8 to 10 Sundays of football each year. “We worked like hell to get $100 million,” Bibb stated. “Of course I wanted more. I always want more for our people—they work too hard and deserve more. But this is a pragmatic deal that sets us up for a better future and a new chapter for our waterfront, one that Clevelanders can enjoy 365 days a year.”
The Mayor acknowledged his frustration, reflecting on the personal weight of the decision and his deep ties to the city and its sports culture. “It’s a hard day. I’m pissed. I’m sad,” he admitted. “I have amazing memories of going to football games with my dad when he was alive. But we were dealt a bad hand, and now we have to pick ourselves up and fight for a new chapter for our city—because our residents deserve it.” Bibb’s stance reflects a balance between emotional loyalty and fiscal reality. While some see compromise, others see courage—the kind that prioritizes long-term stability over short-term applause. As Bibb put it, “I don’t have the luxury to operate in make-believe. These are the facts. And I believe this deal keeps Cleveland moving forward—toward becoming better than Chicago, better than Seattle, better than Boston, and yes, better than New York.” For the mayor, this isn’t the end of a fight—it’s the beginning of a new story for Cleveland’s lakefront, its taxpayers, and its future. “Of course I wanted more. I always want more for our people—they work too hard and deserve more. But this is a pragmatic deal that sets us up for a better future and a new chapter for our waterfront.” — Mayor Justin M. Bibb
“Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.” — Habakkuk 2:2
Leadership isn’t about applause—it’s about accountability. Mayor Bibb has chosen the harder path, one rooted in realism, responsibility, and faith in Cleveland’s potential. He stood firm when it would’ve been easier to posture. He protected our taxpayers when others were willing to gamble their future. This moment is not about politics—it’s about vision. A vision for a waterfront that serves all Clevelanders, 365 days a year. As Scripture reminds us: “To whom much is given, much is required.” — Luke 12:48 And in this moment, Mayor Bibb has borne that responsibility with strength and conviction. — Dale Edwards, Executive Director, The Call & Post
