Tom Dundon Demands Full Public Funding for Moda Center Renovation Without Contributing Private Capital

Billionaire Trail Blazers owner Tom Dundon made his case Wednesday for a $600 million Moda Center renovation, telling Portland business and political leaders the city must provide approximately $120 million in public funding to keep the franchise competitive. Dundon, who has not offered to contribute private capital to the project, emphasized his existing investment in purchasing the team and paying local taxes.

The Public Funding Push

Dundon addressed an audience of roughly 350 attendees at the Portland Metro Chamber's annual meeting held inside the Moda Center itself. His remarks came as city and state officials intensify efforts to move the arena modernization forward. Metro Council President Andrew Hoan interviewed Dundon during the event, with additional remarks from Senate President Rob Wagner and State Senator Kate Lieber.

Mayor Keith Wilson stressed the urgency of securing funding, arguing that Portland risks losing major economic opportunities without a renovated venue. He pointed to the NBA All-Star Game as an example of what a modern arena could attract, estimating such an event could generate $500 million in economic activity and fill approximately 7,000 hotel room nights in a city with only 10,000 total rooms.

Significant Opposition Emerges

The proposal faces mounting resistance from progressive city council members and community groups. During a concurrent work session, City Council members Candace Avalos and Angelita Morillo expressed skepticism about providing public funds without private contribution. Avalos stated she would struggle to support taxpayer investment without visible private sector participation, while Morillo characterized the deal as "fiscally irresponsible at worst."

Outside the chamber event, protesters accused local leadership of conducting negotiations behind closed doors and using public money to satisfy Dundon's demands. Morillo also questioned whether public resources should fund arena improvements when schools and essential services face budget shortfalls.

The Stakes for Portland

State Senator Kate Lieber warned of severe economic consequences should Portland lose the Trail Blazers, calling such an outcome "really, really devastating" for the region. The franchise's future in Portland appears contingent on renovations that would modernize the facility and position it to host major events.