“The town is going to stand behind the request of the $7.7 million for both manpower and some capital and expense items, and if they aren’t met, then as this board has discussed in the past, the license won’t be granted, we’re going to be very clear with that,” said Yukna. “This event is not Foxborough’s event. This is a national, international event, and it’s not up to the Town of Foxborough to support and pay for any of this. As our [police] chiefs are the ones responsible for the security and safety of the facilities, their needs need to be met, or this cannot be an event that moves forward.”
The quadrennial World Cup, to be staged in 16 North American cities in June and July, is expected to generate more than $11 billion in revenues.
Massachusetts is receiving approximately $47 million from a total of $625 million in federal funds earmarked last year for addressing safety and security concerns in the 11 host cities in the United States.
Impacted towns have to apply for their share of the grant through the state, with the Boston host committee responsible for disbursing the funds.
With timing for the disbursements unclear and with capital expenditures having to take place in the near future, the Town of Foxborough said it can’t foot the bill in advance.
“It’s reimbursement and we’re not in a position to put forward $7.8 [sic] million up front and hope to be reimbursed,” said Paige Duncan, Foxborough’s town manager.
The trio of entities are actively discussing the matter, with the town and host committee, Boston 26, holding weekly meetings.
“We are working closely with FIFA, the stadium, and the Town of Foxborough to reach an agreement,” said Julie Duffy, chief marketing and communications officer for Boston 26, in a statement.
The committee has been open in recent months that the public outlay of funds for its operations, Fan Fest activities, and stadium modifications has been insufficient. The committee also has spoken about the challenge of raising funds from the private sector.
The committee and Governor Maura Healey sought $20 million from the state legislature. It has received $10 million, with some legislators holding out the possibility that more could be allocated.
Recently, Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joined the committee’s board of directors.
“Massachusetts is excited to host the FIFA World Cup and to showcase all that we have to offer to players and fans from around the world,” said Karissa Hand, a spokesperson for Healey, in a statement. “This will have major economic benefits for our businesses and our state. We are committed to ensuring that municipalities, especially Foxborough, have the support they need to make this a successful event through state, federal, and private funds.”
Michael Silverman can be reached at [email protected].
