Bob CollinsThe City of Minneapolis is outlining its proposal for using taxpayer money to build Zygi Wilf a new stadium for his Vikings. Reportedly, the plan calls for using an expiring sales tax originally earmarked for the Minnesota Convention Center expansion, adding a liquor and food tax and implementing a surcharge on parking. The money will also go toward renovating Target Center, an idea that fell flat on its face after it was unveiled in February.
A new artist’s rendering of the stadium was released today, too. (As I was saying last week…)
Colleague Ted Canova thinks he’s seen this look before. See if you can guess where?
Update 3:23 p.m. – The Vikings have issued a lukewarm reaction:
The Minnesota Vikings appreciate Hennepin County, the City of Minneapolis and Ramsey County for their participation in serious discussions regarding a new stadium for the team, our fans and the State of Minnesota over the last several months.
Today the Vikings want to thank the City of Minneapolis for bringing forward a proposal to replace the Metrodome. Team officials first saw a broad outline of this plan late last week. The Vikings were not involved in developing the specifics of this proposal and have not agreed to any of the financing elements. While we have concerns about provisions within the City’s proposal, the team will examine it in further detail and respond accordingly.
