Poll: Many Minnesotans In Favor Of Stadium
ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCCO) – A statewide poll released Friday at the State Capitol shows that nearly two-thirds of Minnesotans are in favor of a Vikings stadium that would be funded in part by gambling revenues and built on the current Metrodome site.
In the poll, 1,000 residents from across the state were asked if they would support a new Vikings stadium financed by state gambling and other revenues along with a significant contribution from the team. About 71 percent of voters either are in favor or are somewhat in favor of a stadium.
About 61 percent of voters favor a stadium under four conditions. Those are that the Vikings would fund more than 50 percent of the stadium construction and operating costs over the life of their lease, that a majority of the public contribution would come from gambling money with no new tax increases or use of general revenue funds, that the city of Minneapolis would use existing hospitality taxes and not raise any new taxes and that the public could use the facility for at least 300 days per year.
About 71 percent of those polled also said it's either very important or somewhat important for the Vikings franchise to stay in Minnesota. A stadium bill was introduced last week, but discussions over the financing package were tabled after lawmakers couldn't come to an agreement over several issues.
State lawmakers have until the end of the legislative session to pass a bill to get the stadium built. A special session could be called if even developments transpire to get the team and lawmakers closer to an approved deal.
