Reds Ordered to Pay Back Rent

Reds Ordered to Pay $6.5 Million in Back Rent

Judge reaffirms prior decision; rejects new trial

Cincinnati, October 2, 2001 -- Judge Robert Kraft reinforced his recent decision that the Cincinnati Reds should pay $6.5 million in back rent for use of Cinergy Field. In August, the Hamilton County court finally ruled in favor of a local plaintiff who filed suit in 1996 on behalf of a group of taxpayers. The court ruled that the team owed the back rent to taxpayers despite a new agreement with the county waiving payment if the team plays in its new facility, Great American Ball Park, for 35 years. Judge Kraft ruled that the lease for the new park, signed in 1999, could not legally remove payment obligations on Cinergy Field.

Judge Kraft informed the Reds there would not be another trial on the issue, although a hearing is scheduled for October 12 to determine if the team will owe additional funds in the form of interest and attorney fees. A Reds attorney declined comment, but the prosecuting attorney predicted an appeal by the Reds and Hamilton County. However, County Commissioner Todd Portune indicated that there may not be an appeal, saying "rent due is rent due."

Source: Dan Klepal, "Reds still owe taxpayers, judge says," Cincinnati Enquirer, 10/2/2001.

Amy Armond