You believe everything you read in these articles? The Rams have never "requested" a retractable roof, and that is coming straight from the mouth of Kevin Demoff. I have sat in more than one Season Ticket Luncheon over the past few years and this subject ALWAYS comes up.
Demoff has said more than once, they are keeping THEIR options open, and would consider many different scenarios, including a retractable roof. At the same time, he makes a point of acknowledging a retractable roof would be substantially more costly. And HIS preference (not necessarily the organizations) would be an open air stadium. It would be easier to sell the luxury boxes in an outdoor stadium, (his words), which obviously is a major factor.
The Rams didn't do anyone any favors, when they made their decision back in 2005. No one had any issues with the dome back then, as they were still enjoying the fruits of the GSOT teams, and attendance was booming. It's funny how the dome because an issue ONLY after the team became to the losing-est franchise in NFL history over a 5 year period. Now the dome is the reason why fans won't come?
I think you are being a bit naive if you think the Rams haven't known exactly how this is playing out, and haven't been involved in the process. And like I said, the media is the reason for all of the speculation. And not just the local media. All these "behind the scenes" NFL reporters just take turns regurgitating the same rumors. And obviously, if they are saying it, it much be true.