Oakland mayor confident in keeping Raiders

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Following Mark Davis' commitment to Las Vegas on Thursday, Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf issued the following statement:

“We remain firmly committed to working out terms that responsibly keep the Raiders in Oakland where we want them to be, and where they belong.”

“We appreciate that the Raiders have an internationally recognized brand with appeal in many markets. As such, we understand that while our talks with the team continue, they will also explore all of their options as part of this process. The Raiders have explored options in the past and I am sure they will do so again in the future. It’s my job to remain focused on delivering a deal that works for the Raiders, the fans and the taxpayers. Oakland deserves nothing less.”

[BAIR: Mark Davis: If Vegas delivers, 'we'll be the Las Vegas Raiders']

“Oakland is a strong market with many unique assets that make it a perfect home for the Raiders’ new stadium, including unparalleled stadium access thanks to proximity to public transit and the freeway, incredible real estate value that can support lucrative ancillary development, and a loyal and established base of die-hard fans.”

“We know this hasn’t been an easy road and we appreciate the patience and persistence of the team and its fans. We remain committed to a partnership that supports a team-centered effort to build a new stadium for the Raiders in Oakland that will be successful for the fans and the team, and responsible for the city and its taxpayers.”

“We remain confident that the Raiders can build a new stadium in Oakland without a direct public subsidy. We will continue working with the Raiders and the NFL to responsibly make that happen.” 

Chair of the Joint Powers Authority, that is responsible for the management of the existing Coliseum facility, City Councilmember Larry Reid (D-7) added:

“The Raiders and the City of Oakland have long and strong history. We’re glad to have successfully negotiated a new lease agreement that keeps the team in Oakland for at least another season, giving Mayor Schaaf, the City Administration and the team the time needed to work out a fair deal that keeps them in Oakland for generations to come.”

Raiders president Marc Badain, meanwhile, issued the following statement: "We have made no progress" with Oakland for a new East Bay stadium since the Los Angeles vote in January.

Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf media services contributed to this report

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