HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-10 signedCITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
COUNCIL RESOLUTION
July 13, 2011
No. 11 -10
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE IMPOSITION OF A % CENT SALES TAX IN RAMSEY
COUNTY FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A VIKINGS STADIUM IN ARDEN HILLS
WHEREAS, the Falcon Heights City Council recognizes the social and economic value of the
Minnesota Vikings Football team to the State of Minnesota; and,
WHEREAS, to preserve the Minnesota Vikings as a valuable State amenity, the Falcon Heights City
Council understands the desire to find a solution to the Vikings' stated interest in developing a new
stadium; and,
WHEREAS, a proposal has been put forth by the Minnesota Vikings and the Ramsey County Board of
Commissioners to construct a new stadium in Arden Hills on the site of the former Twin Cities Army
Ammunitions Plant (TCAAP); and,
WHEREAS, to finance the construction of this facility, the Ramsey County Board has proposed the
imposition of a' /z cent sales tax collected in Ramsey County in an amount sufficient to generate $350
million; and,
WHEREAS, the Falcon Heights City Council believes this sales tax is being proposed at a difficult time
for cities such as Falcon Heights that are facing significant budget pressures due to loss of state aids and
general economic conditions; and,
WHEREAS, it is unfair and inequitable for the residents and businesses of Falcon Heights to be asked to
bear a disproportionate financial burden for the construction of a State and regional amenity, particularly
when the benefit to Falcon Heights taxpayers is tangential at best;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Falcon Heights City Council opposes the imposition
of a/2 cent sales tax in Ramsey County to support the construction of a Vikings stadium in Arden Hills;
and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Falcon Heights City Council encourages the Governor, the
Legislature, the Ramsey County Board, the Minnesota Vikings and other interested parties to consider
options for constructing a stadium that minimize risk to the taxpayers, limit the level of public subsidy
(particularly for the host community), and promote a fair, multi- jurisdictional participation for a State-
wide amenity.
Moved by: #0((1 S
LINDSTROM
GOSLINE
HARRIS
LONG /A_iiqiA4�
MERCER - TAYLOR
Approved by: e,$x, U��
Peter Lindstrom, Mayor
July 13, 2011
In Favor Attested by: ?v
! stin Miller
Against City Administrator
July 13, 2011