The Cleveland Browns’ plans to relocate and play in a proposed domed stadium have hit a significant obstacle.Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb has notified team owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam of the city’s intent to invoke the “Modell Law,” aiming to prevent the Browns from leaving their current lakefront stadium, where the lease is set to expire in 2028. In a letter, Bibb requested a response from the team by January 9, warning that failure to comply could result in “appropriate legal action.”
Enacted in 1996 following former Browns owner Art Modell’s controversial move to Baltimore, the Modell Law stipulates that no professional sports team owner in Ohio can relocate from a tax-supported stadium without either an agreement with the city or a six-month notice period that allows the city the opportunity to purchase the team.The Browns had previously filed a federal lawsuit seeking clarification on the law, which is still pending.
In their response to Bibb’s letter, the Browns expressed that “the statute and the city’s actions create uncertainty and do not serve the interest of Greater Cleveland.” The city’s invocation of the Modell Law adds to the ongoing contentious relationship between the team and local officials.
The Haslams, who have owned the team since 2012, are advocating for a $2.4 billion domed stadium and entertainment complex in Brook Park, approximately 10 miles south of Cleveland. They propose a public-private partnership to share the costs with the city and county.
Meanwhile, the city has suggested covering half of the renovation costs for the existing 65,000-seat stadium, which opened in 1999 when the NFL awarded Cleveland an expansion franchise. The Haslams counter that simply repairing the current stadium does not address larger issues related to parking and accessibility. They argue that a new domed facility would enhance regional growth by attracting major sporting events and concerts.
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