This idea is idiotic and will never happen as reported. Ox's remedy is too mild.
The bigger issue is the Rays' abysmal attendance since their inaugural season in 1998 that continued even through their "glory years" and through to today. This season they rank 29th out of 30 MLB teams in attendance and that includes sales gimmicks like $5 tickets. Oddly, then enjoy some of the best TV ratings in MLB. Go figure.
Simply put, the Tampa Bay area is the 18th largest MSA and should draw double the crowds the Rays draw today. There are lots of theories as to why the Rays draw so poorly, but no one really knows for sure. As an 18-year Tampa resident who was there for the franchise's birth, I do think the stadium itself and its location contribute to the problem. Others argue the weather, or that the citizenry is comprised of transplants that root for other teams, that Florida sucks for MLB, etc. Regardless, the Lightning draw well in Channelside playing an arguably less popular game, regularly selling out a 19,200 seat arena when they're really good - but still getting good crowds when they're not so good. And I can remember the hand-wringing as the Channelside arena was being considered - "No one will drive to that part of town for a hockey game!" Bunk. Using the NHL as an example, I have to believe that, under better circumstances (nicer stadium located near more people and companies), the Rays could draw 23-25K per home game, minimum.
The area has a decision to make. Do they want to keep the team? If so, they're going to have to pony up the better part of $1B for a new stadium and by God, that stadium needs to be in Tampa - Westshore, or Ybor or near Vinik's SPP in Channelside (is that flour mill site still available?). It should be in a walkable part of town. And by thunder (literally), it needs to be domed, or if they can afford it, a retractable roof. Considering any Pinellas location is sheer lunacy.
Now, I get the argument, that it is outrageous for ham and eggers to build millionaires and billionaires a new playground with their hard-earned tax dollars. And that is a fair position to take. But if you take that position, losing the team is a certainty, as the good folks in Charlotte, Nashville, Vegas, Portland or Montreal will pony up for a shiny, new stadium. It's the world we live in.
If they're smart, St. Pete will grant permission for negotiations across the Bay again and the area will get serious about solving the problem. Tomorrow. Man up, be a major league city and build a friggin stadium. If not, adieu, Rays.