North OC Times

The city of Anaheim has publicized a report from the California State Auditor concerning its lease agreement with Angels Baseball LP for Angel Stadium. The report examines the lease, effective since 1996 and due to run until 2029, with possible extensions to 2038. As no current discussions about the lease or related matters are ongoing, the recommendations focus on prospective future agreements.

Anaheim's officials regard these recommendations as constructive for upcoming lease negotiations, emphasizing the significant changes in circumstances since the initial lease with the then-team owner Walt Disney Co. Mayor Ashleigh Aitken stated, "We welcome the recommendations, which will inform any future lease discussions. Our residents can rest assured that any future lease will be better and stronger." She highlighted the age of the current agreement and attributed missed opportunities for improvement to the former Sidhu Council. Aitken expressed confidence in the city's audit team, noting that a new audit is planned for later this year.

The state auditor suggests specific measures for future leases, including precise language regarding access, maintenance, repair responsibilities, and capital reserve spending. The city agrees with ensuring future leases have such clarity. The state auditor also advises regular inspections to verify the stadium's condition and maintenance. In response, Anaheim is working to finalize an access agreement with the Angels for an ongoing stadium assessment initiated in 2023.

Additionally, the report recommends annual reviews of stadium records to confirm revenue accuracy. Anaheim has intermittently conducted audits since 1996, with the last in 2018. Due to pauses during the pandemic, a new audit is expected to begin midyear and continue through the latter half of 2025. Another recommendation encourages Anaheim to keep records of non-baseball stadium events, detailing anticipated attendance, parking, and revenue, which the city welcomes.

Anaheim has encouraged public access to the auditor's findings and the details of the 1996 lease agreement for further transparency.