MILWAUKEE — Wednesday was an exciting day for Milwaukee Brewers’ fans. The Southeast Wisconsin Professional Baseball Park District voted to approve a new lease agreement for American Family Field, which would keep the team in Wisconsin until 2050.
Dale Kooyenga is the president and CEO of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC). He sits on the board and was one of the 11 people who voted in favor of lease approval.
“This is a big step just continuing that until 2050,” Kooyenga said. “To make sure that this one of the elite baseball stadiums in the country. To make sure that we have an elite baseball team as well.”
Wisconsin State Sen. Duey Stroebel, R-Saukville, was the only person who voted “no.”
Stroebel said, in his opinion, the law firm selected to lead this effort is not the best equipped or most experienced.
“I fear that this deal could lead to unintended negative consequences for taxpayers and the state of Wisconsin in the future end quote,” Stroebel said.
Last December, Gov. Tony Evers signed the bipartisan package of bills after months of deliberations and negotiations. Evers said this is a home run for Wisconsin.
“I am incredibly proud of the good, bipartisan work that has gone into getting to today to ensure future generations of Wisconsinites can grow up rooting for our home team,” Evers said. “The Brewers have long been a critical part of our history and our heritage in Wisconsin, with billions of dollars in annual economic impact and hundreds of local, family-supporting jobs.”
Kooyenga said this is not only great for baseball fans, but for the state as a whole.
Moving forward, local leaders are looking at what they can do to enhance American Family Field and the surrounding area, which could include an entertainment district.
“What new amenities? Weatherization? Can we have events here in the winter? Big, big concerts and other sports venues. Twelve months a year can be a big possibility when we get weatherization done,” Kooyenga said.
The agreement still needs approval from Major League Baseball and the State Department of Administration. Both are expected to give approval.
“It took hard work and collaboration, but these efforts have made it possible for the Milwaukee Brewers to remain viable and competitive in the smallest market in baseball and to keep our home in Wisconsin for the next generation,” said President of Business Operations for the Brewers Rick Schlesing.