Minnesota stadium plan needs backing of St. Paul mayor

The very tenuous stadium plan the Minnesota Vikings have established in Arden Hills, Minn., remains in flux and some onlookers believe ground will never be broken at the site if St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman doesn’t get behind the project.

Coleman is the leader of the biggest city in Ramsey County – and a half-cent sales tax hike is needed in Ramsey County in order to support the project for a retractable-roof stadium. Without the backing of Coleman, it might not happen, according to Rochelle Olson of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

The tax hike – a dangerous political thing to be behind – is one of several potential hang-ups and deal breakers. There’s also the matter of the $200 million for road improvements that isn’t accounted for at this point.

Coleman wants to study the issue as the bulk of the sales tax increase will come from St. Paul.

I start with the premise the Vikings are an important asset. We've got to find a way to keep them here,” Coleman said.

Coleman has proposed a state-wide tax of one cent or two cents per bottle on beer and liquor, something he believes could cover the state and county’s contribution to the project.</p>

With the state legislature adjourning May 23, it’s more clear that a finalized deal is a longshot at this point.

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune

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