LAS VEGAS (AP) — The National Finals Rodeo is expected to move to Florida in 2015 after spending 29 years in Las Vegas.
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association board voted 6-3 Sunday to decline Las Vegas’ offer and pursue an agreement with Osceola (oh’-see-OH’-luh) County, south of Orlando.
Association commissioner Karl Stressman issued a statement to the Las Vegas Review-Journal saying the association made its decision based on the content of the current offer, but continues to consider deals from other potential hosts.
Officials with Las Vegas Events say they are disappointed by the move. Spokesman Michael Mack called the Florida offer “completely speculative” compared with Las Vegas’ track record.
Mack says an incentives package from Osceola County to entice event organizers exceeded the Las Vegas offer by $4 million.
Officials with the rodeo and Osceola County weren’t immediately available for comment Monday.
Source: Associated Press