Anaheim Tries Again to Keep Rams in Town

In an effort to prevent the Rams from being kicked out of their practice facility--and possibly leave town entirely--Anaheim city officials Thursday presented the team with a new lease for Rams Park, their home since 1980.

City officials said they hoped the team would accept the offer before a March 11 deadline imposed by the Magnolia School District, which issued the eviction ultimatum because it is frustrated by the lengthy negotiations for the practice site.

John Shaw, Ram executive vice president, said he had not seen city’s new offer and does not expect to have a decision until late next week. Shaw said team officials have no contingency plans for a practice facility if they leave Rams Park.

“We haven’t really looked at it,” he said. “I’m sure there are alternative sites. We’re not restricted to practicing in Anaheim.”

The dispute over the practice facility has heightened concerns throughout the city that the Rams will move from Anaheim after next season. Team officials already have indicated they are exploring deals with other cities.

Anaheim City Atty. Jack L. White said the Rams may be evicted if they don’t decide on the lease by early next week. White said he has not heard from Shaw about the new proposal.

“Maybe he has better things to do, like shopping his team across the country,” White said.