A’s survey claims most Clark County residents back proposed Las Vegas ballpark

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) - A survey of 700 people in a study sponsored by the Oakland A’s claims the majority of Clark County responders supported a ballpark in the original I-15 site, and claims the public would support $500 million in financing.

According to a news release announcing the study’s findings, which was conducted by the Mellman Group on behalf of the team, results represent the findings of 700 registered voters in Clark County.

The study surveyed residents from April 29 to May 5. The A’s announced their Bally’s partnership for the Tropicana Hotel site on May 9.

“Even after hearing an attack from opponents about ‘taxpayer money’ going to an ‘out of state billionaire’, a two-thirds majority support the plan. Even the plan to use up to $500 million in existing public taxes and fees from the property without new taxes received 72% support,” the study said.

FOX5 has been hearing from numerous residents on the impact of tax breaks on Clark County residents. “By not collecting money they otherwise would have collected, that is a cost to the taxpayer,” one caller to the Rant said. FOX5 has highlighted support and opposition for a proposed tax district, and the potential positive or negative impact on taxpayers.

“This poll tested the location near I-15 which 63% support – but could be higher with the new lower-cost location,” it stated. Numerous FOX5 residents have raised concerns about traffic along Tropicana Avenue and the Las Vegas Strip.

“We’re very pleased by these poll numbers and the overall support,” A’s President Dave Kaval said. “We look forward to delivering a world-class ballpark and all the benefits Major League Baseball brings, including jobs, economic and community impacts, and civic pride.”

According to the findings of the study, 66% support the idea, with 37% of that group saying they strongly support it. Eighteen percent oppose the project, with 11% of that group saying they strongly oppose it, the release said. Sixteen percent of those surveyed said they are undecided.

“Almost all Clark County voters (92%) have heard at least something about the plan, and they support it by over a 3:1 margin. Two-thirds (66%) support it, with over a third (37%) supporting it strongly, compared to only 18% registering any level of opposition and 16% undecided. Majority support of 55% or more extends across all major demographics including party, gender, race, age, and region. Support is over 60% in all seven County Commission districts,” the Mellman Group said in a statement.

The release states the proposed 30,000-capacity Las Vegas ballpark will host A’s regular and postseason games, as well as concerts and other special events.

“Southern Nevadans are excited about the prospect of bringing the A’s to Las Vegas. Major League Baseball on the Las Vegas Strip would be a significant step in our city’s evolution into a vibrant international center of professional sports,” said Mary Beth Sewald, President and CEO of the Vegas Chamber.

A previous FOX5 interview with Kaval on April 20 disclosed that research had been done in the Las Vegas market. “When we did focus groups, we interviewed thousands of people,” Kaval said.

FOX5 inquired with A’s management about the studies. A representative said the team enlisted a number of focus groups, and feasibility work was done in 2021 and 2022.

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