No Truth to Report Tunney Supports Tearing Down Wrigley Scoreboard

Ald. Tom Tunney (44th) says reports that he suggests replacing the iconic scoreboard at Wrigley Field with a video board are false, according to the Huffington Post.

Tunney released a statement to the media Wednesday saying negotiations with the Chicago Cubs regarding things like advertisements in the outfield and their $300 million park renovation are still ongoing. He added an example of an idea being toyed with, but was later taken off the table.

“The Cubs, the administration and I have had many meetings where creative solutions have been offered that could satisfy the community and the Cubs organization,” Tunney said. “Moving the scoreboard to left field, where a similar one existed until the 1930’s, and replacing it with a video board it is just one of the many ideas that have been on the table. It was discussed in earnest by all parties and dismissed.”

Soon after the statement was sent out, the Chicago Sun-Times reported Tunney was adamant about the change in the outfield to protect the Wrigley Rooftop owners, citing two unnamed sourced close the negotiations.

“Put it in centerfield. Make it as big as you want,” the Sun-Times' source quoted the alderman saying.

But later Wednesday afternoon, Tunney told CBS Chicago that report was absolutely false.

"No one seriously talked about destroying the landmark scoreboard,” Tunney told CBS. “It was never in anyone’s discussion whatsoever."

The Cubs do, however, want a Jumbotron at Wrigley Field to snag millions advertising revenue for their major renovation, but it’s still a major sticking point with the alderman due to it blocking the Wrigley Rooftop seats, Huffington Post Chicago writes.

Still, Tunney says the latest talks with the Cubs have been heading in the right direction.

“Overall, the discussions have been positive and conversations with the team continue,” Tunney’s statement continued. “We all hope that solutions can be reached that are in keeping with the character of the community and the desires of the Cubs.”

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