CLEVELAND — Mayor Justin Bibb has expressed disappointment after a meeting with Jimmy and Dee Haslam of the Haslam Sports Group (HSG), during which they shared their intent to relocate the Cleveland Browns to Brook Park.

This decision comes just as Cleveland’s downtown is showing signs of growth, with major projects like the Cleveland Cavaliers’ new practice facility and a $60 million federal grant for lakefront redevelopment underway.

In a statement, Mayor Bibb reaffirmed his commitment to Cleveland’s residents and long-term development goals, criticizing the Haslams’ move as prioritizing profits over community impact.

He pointed out that Cleveland had offered HSG a substantial financial package to renovate the Browns’ current stadium and proposed a new domed stadium at Burke Lakefront Airport.

However, the Haslams chose not to pursue this option.

Mayor Bibb emphasized that the Browns’ potential departure could harm local businesses, undermine public investments, and slow downtown recovery.

An economic impact study commissioned by the city estimates that the Browns’ exit could cost downtown businesses over $30 million annually.

He also expressed concerns that state support for a new stadium in Brook Park would create new taxpayer burdens without clear benefits.

Bibb and Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne have communicated their opposition to the move to Governor Mike DeWine, urging that state resources should align with local priorities.

Bibb reiterated his focus on Cleveland’s lakefront development, vowing to continue investing in the city’s future and leaving the door open for re-engaging with HSG if their Brook Park plans falter.

“We will continue to execute our vision for the lakefront,” Bibb said, “and if the Haslams reconsider, we’re ready to work toward a solution that keeps the Browns in Cleveland.”