4 spring training teams skip event

PHOENIX (AP) — Four teams opposed to a funding plan for a new Chicago Cubs spring-training stadium skipped a kickoff event Tuesday hosted by Mesa.

The Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds oppose a spring-training ticket surcharge to build a new Cubs complex and to finance other improvements.

Angels spokesman Tim Mead said it's fundamentally wrong to implement a tax on loyal baseball fans.

State Rep. John McComish's bill would add a $1 surcharge to car-rental fees in Maricopa County and an 8 percent surcharge to all spring-training tickets. It's intended to generate $58 million that would finance bonds issued by the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority for a new Cubs complex.

Mesa would be responsible for $26 million of the $84 million price tag.

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Information from: The Arizona Republic, http://www.azcentral.com