Arena deal impasse and relocation threat

The Blazers and Portland city council remain deadlocked over the 'first-class' lease clause and a $3M annual fee. Hostile meetings and a significant funding gap persist. The Blazers reject the current term sheet, demanding more public money and threatening relocation to Austin, St. Louis, or Kansas City (per Bill Simmons). However, Blazers insider Sean Highkin reassures that the deal will likely pass, tempering relocation fears. August 12 vote on term sheet only; public hearings next week.