Real Salt Lake finally getting its $35 million

Council members had few concerns with the agreements Tuesday. Councilman Steve Smith, however, voiced opposition to a line in the development agreement that says if Real leaves the state because Major League Soccer folds, they would not have to pay back the bonds.

"If the league folds in four (years), they have a nice little out," he said. "It seems to be, at least from my perspective, a road we didn't need to go down."

Sant stressed that the league dying would not be Real's fault, therefore they should not be financially responsible.

Howes said after the meeting the league is thriving, especially after soccer superstar David Beckham began playing with the LA Galaxy earlier this summer. A 14th team was just announced in San Jose and MLS has already lined up a 15th and 16th team.

Sandy's development agreement has more terms than an agreement the team had with Salt Lake County in 2006 when the county had originally proposed floating the bonds. The only major differences were the county requiring Real to stay in the state for an extra five years and wanting 50-cents per non-concert ticket sold paid back to the county. Sandy is also asking for extra incentives, like a 12-person suite and access to Real players and coaches for community events.

Howes notes the county never finalized an agreement with Real and Sandy's is "a lot more refined."

The other agreements approved Tuesday include an acquisition agreement outlining the terms for Sandy to buy the 23 acres from Real. A ground lease agreement then says the city would lease the land back to Real for 50 years for $1 a year, with a 10-year extension available.

In addition to the Thursday special council meeting at 7 p.m., the city's planning commission will hear Real's parking management plan.

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