The Chicago Cubs will campaign strenuously in favor of a financial package to keep the team's spring training operations at its long-time home of Mesa. A vote on the proposal is set for the general election on Nov. 2.
Mesa has proposed an $84 million financing plan for a new stadium that includes the sale of city-owned undeveloped land in Pinal County and an increase in the city's hotel tax to 5% from the current 3% to support bonds for the project.
The Cubs have pledged to provide 50% of the money needed to build a new athletic complex known as Wrigleyville West.
Mesa residents must vote on the financial plan because a provision in the city charter requires voter approval of any sports facility costing more than $1.5 million.
Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts said last week that team officials will make presentations in support of the proposal at civic organizations and other gatherings.
The team has held spring training in Mesa since 1952 and draws the most fans of any of the 15 Major League Baseball teams that play spring training games in Arizona.
The new complex is set to open in 2013.
