Tampa Bay's three professional sports franchises--The Rays, The Bucs and the Lightning--have issued a joint statement through The Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, confirming that the teams have collectively donated money to move the Confederate Soldier's monument.
In a statement, the teams say, quote “Recognizing that this monument does not reflect the values of our community, in collaboration with the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, our organizations have dedicated funds to assist in moving the statue from the public space in front of the courthouse. Now more than ever before, we must stand united and committed to diversity and inclusion as we all attempt to heal from the tragedy in Charlottesville. "
The amount announced by the Chamber is $70,000. more than $52,000 is raised on a go fund me account. $5,000 comes from former Bucs coach Tony Dungy and a $50,000 check is from Tampa businessman Bob Gries
Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn ponied up $1,000 to move the controversial monument from the public eye.
On Wednesday, the Hillsborough County Commission voted 4-2 to require that the public fund half of the monument's relocation to the tune of $140,000. If the goal isn't met by September 16th, commissioners say the monument won't be moved. But it appears that goal has now been met.