Controversy Surrounding Everett’s Stadium Proposal: What Residents Need to Know

The city of Everett is at a crossroads, with a major decision looming about the future of sports and entertainment in our community. At the heart of the debate is whether to renovate the existing Funko Field or build a new downtown stadium that could host both the beloved Everett AquaSox and new professional soccer teams. While the proposal has stirred excitement, it has also raised concerns among residents, leaving many wondering: is this the right move for Everett?

Why Is the Stadium Proposal on the Table?

The driving force behind this initiative is Major League Baseball’s (MLB) new compliance standards. These rules require substantial upgrades to minor league facilities to meet modern requirements for players, staff, and female professionals in the sport. Without these upgrades, Everett risks losing the AquaSox, a cherished part of our community for decades. The urgency is palpable: out of 120 non-compliant teams a year ago, only three—Everett included—remain without upgrades.

The Options: Renovate or Build New

The city is considering three paths:

Renovate Funko Field: A remodel would cost $75–$80 million and require the AquaSox to play elsewhere for at least a season. However, the city would continue leasing the site from the Everett School District, limiting long-term revenue potential.
Build a Downtown Stadium: Estimated at $100–$120 million, this option offers greater economic benefits by adding men’s and women’s soccer teams from the United Soccer League (USL) as tenants. The downtown site would also create opportunities for concerts, events, and public space.
Do Nothing: Without action, Everett loses the AquaSox and misses out on new revenue opportunities.

Funding and Cost Concerns

A key point of contention is funding. The city plans to use bonds backed by stadium revenues, state and county contributions, and private investments from the AquaSox and USL teams. Officials stress that no new taxes, levies, or general fund dollars (used for essential services like libraries and public safety) will fund the project. However, critics argue the estimated $39 million funding gap—higher for the downtown site—may strain city resources with hefty interest payments on the loans or bonds. If some of the opportunities don't meet long term expectations, the city could be left needing to carry operating costs that we can't afford.

View the final report from the fiscal advisory committee here: Link

Community Impact

Supporters tout the downtown site as a transformative project. It has potential for economic growth, enhanced public space, and a year-round calendar of events, including 106 baseball and soccer games annually. Local businesses could benefit from increased foot traffic, and residents might enjoy new recreational opportunities.

Opponents, however, question the opportunity cost. Could the $120 million go toward housing, infrastructure, or education instead? The proposed downtown site will be near a future light rail stop that could be ideal for building affordable housing.

The school district, which owns Funko Field, would also lose rental income and face logistical challenges if the stadium relocates. Concerns about parking, long-term debt, and competition with Angel of the Winds Arena for events also persist.

What’s Next?

The City Council will decide on the stadium’s location on Dec 18th, 2024, a crucial step before more detailed plans and funding sources are finalized. While the timeline feels rushed, proponents argue this urgency is necessary to save the AquaSox and seize a unique economic opportunity.

As Everett weighs this decision, residents are encouraged to review the detailed reports on the city’s website, attend tomorrow's council meeting, and voice their perspectives. The choice isn’t just about a stadium—it’s about the kind of future we want for Everett. The council members did a great job highlighting concerns and questions they've received from residents during last week's briefing and will have a difficult choice to make tomorrow.

What’s your take? Is this a worthy investment, or should Everett focus on other priorities? Take a moment to share this article with someone and let’s keep the conversation going!