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  • Issue #703: Rays Stadium Funding Faces $796M Threat, Clearwater Contractor Accused of $830K Theft, Bucs Lose Heartbreaker, Pasco Teen Makes Team USA

Issue #703: Rays Stadium Funding Faces $796M Threat, Clearwater Contractor Accused of $830K Theft, Bucs Lose Heartbreaker, Pasco Teen Makes Team USA

11/10/2026

Author

Ted Grellner
10 Nov

In partnership with

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GOOD MORNING
Dr Ted
USAF Retired

 
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In this issue of NewTampa | WesleyChapel Local Pulse

Local News

— Property Tax Overhaul Threatens $796 Million in County Funding for New Rays Stadium

OMG!

— Clearwater Contractor Accused of Stealing $830,000 From Church Building Fund

Sports

— Bucs Blow Chance to Lead NFC South as Bears Steal Last-Second Victory

— Pasco County Teen Makes Team USA, Heads to Kazakhstan for World Championships

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Property Tax Overhaul Threatens $796 Million in County Funding for New Rays Stadium

Hillsborough County commissioners face a critical Tuesday vote on financing a $2.36 billion Tampa Bay Rays stadium, just days after voters approved a sweeping property tax overhaul that could strain county finances.

The proposed agreement would commit up to $796 million in county funding, primarily through sales and tourist development taxes. Tampa would contribute another $80 million for surrounding infrastructure, while the Rays would cover remaining construction costs and overruns.

The four-part financing package includes $90 million in initial sales tax funding, $40 million in tourist tax revenue, and authorization to borrow up to $263 million.

Two commissioners already oppose the deal, leaving supporters little room for defections. Meanwhile, county officials warn that reduced property tax revenue could force layoffs and service cuts.

A failed or delayed vote could jeopardize the Rays' ambitious stadium construction timeline, complicating the team's long-term future in Tampa Bay.

Clearwater Contractor Accused of Stealing $830,000 From Church Building Fund

A Clearwater contractor faces grand theft charges after allegedly diverting more than $830,000 intended for construction of Unity Church of Clearwater's new building.

Police say contractor William Botelho spent less than $100,000 on the project, directing substantial funds toward personal expenses, including credit cards, mortgage payments, condominium costs, luxury vehicles and nearly $115,000 in ATM withdrawals.

Church leaders became suspicious when Botelho demanded more than $1 million in additional funding without supporting documentation. After refusing his request and waiting months, they contacted police.

Investigators believe most, if not all, of the missing money is gone, leaving the congregation facing significant financial challenges.

The church has hired another contractor, but construction delays have forced members to worship virtually, affecting attendance and fundraising.

Despite the setback, senior minister Rev. Leddy Hammock hopes to open the new church before her 80th birthday this spring, emphasizing the congregation's determination to move forward.

Astonishing Fact: One of America's most notorious church embezzlement scandals involved a trusted church treasurer, John C. Bennett, who stole approximately $7 million from the First Baptist Church of West Palm Beach, Florida, over several years.

The remarkable part? Much of the money reportedly went toward financing an extravagant lifestyle, while church members continued donating in good faith.

Bucs Blow Chance to Lead NFC South as Bears Steal Last-Second Victory

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered a heartbreaking 27-24 loss to the Chicago Bears Sunday night, surrendering a last-second field goal after rallying from a 17-3 deficit.

Bucky Irving led Tampa Bay's offense, rushing for 97 yards and scoring twice, including the touchdown that helped tie the game late. Defensively, Zyon McCollum intercepted two passes, while Tykee Smith added another interception and seven tackles. The Bucs forced five turnovers overall.

However, Baker Mayfield struggled, completing 18 of 32 passes for 243 yards with two interceptions, including a costly touchdown return. Tampa's offensive line surrendered four sacks and committed five false-start penalties.

Coach Todd Bowles faced criticism for settling for field goals instead of pursuing touchdowns in crucial situations.

The defeat dropped Tampa Bay out of first place in the NFC South, raising fresh concerns about the team's playoff prospects and inconsistent offense.

Pasco County Teen Makes Team USA, Heads to Kazakhstan for World Championships

Odessa teenager Lily James has earned a coveted spot on Team USA, becoming one of just six American athletes selected to compete in the Goalball World Championships in Kazakhstan.

Born without vision in her right eye and possessing limited sight in her left, James has excelled in goalball, a sport designed for athletes who are blind or visually impaired.

Players wear blindfolds to ensure fairness and use their hearing to track a ball containing bells. Teams score by rolling or throwing the ball past opponents, who dive to block it.

Beyond goalball, James participates in swimming, weightlifting and cheerleading while serving as her school's class president.

Her parents, Peter and Jennifer James, say her achievements have exceeded their expectations. The family is now raising funds to travel to Kazakhstan and support her during the international competition.

James credits goalball with building her confidence and independence.

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