The Ohio Senate has introduced a controversial and contentious proposal to set aside $600 million from the state’s unclaimed funds to provide financing for a new stadium for the Cleveland Browns in Brook Park. This proposal is part of a broader plan to withdraw $1.7 billion from the $4.8 billion unclaimed property fund, with $1.1 billion earmarked for other stadium projects, including improvements to the Cincinnati Bengals’ Paycor Stadium .
Under the Senate’s plan, the $600 million would be provided as a cash grant to the Haslam Sports Group, owner of the Cleveland Browns franchise, for the construction of a $2.4 billion domed stadium. This approach differs significantly from the Ohio House’s version of the budget, which provides financing the same amount through state bonds to be repaid over 25 years using tax revenue generated by the project.
Proponents argue that the new stadium would stimulate economic growth in Northeast Ohio. The Browns project that the enclosed stadium, surrounded by a mixed-use development, would create an estimated 5,400 full-time permanent positions and 6,000 construction jobs, transforming 176 acres that are currently vacant into a vibrant economic hub for the region.
However, the proposal has met with significant opposition. Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne criticized the plan, stating, “It’s dead on arrival.” He has also encouraged Ohioans to claim their unclaimed funds, thereby reducing the pool available for such grants .
Critics, including state Rep. Terrence Upchurch, D-Cleveland, have expressed skepticism about the Browns’ performance and the use of public funds, “I think the focus that the Haslam Sports Group and the Browns should have is winning more than three games.”
Several Republican’s have expressed more direct opposition to the plan.
“Any available money should be given back to Ohioans in the form of tax relief, not used to fund a sports stadium.,” state Rep. Ron Ferguson, R-Wintersville. told Ohio.news,
"Any available money should be given back to Ohioans in the form of tax relief, not used to fund a sports stadium.”Rep. Josh Williams, R-Sylvania Twp., said. In comments to Ohio.news, he noted: “I do not support using Ohioans’ unclaimed funds for stadium construction. I stand firmly with the Ohio House’s responsible proposal to issue a bond for this project.”
The City of Cleveland has proposed a $461 million financing plan to support updates of the existing lakefront stadium, emphasizing the importance of keeping the Browns downtown to sustain the city’s economic health and growth .
“Having the Browns play here is integral to our city’s identity and community spirit,” Mayor Justin Bibb said.
As the debate continues, the Ohio legislature faces a June 30 budget deadline to finalize the state’s biennial budget, including decisions on stadium funding. The outcome will have significant implications for taxpayers, the Browns’ future location, and the broader economic landscape of Northeast Ohio.
