Vikings Release Stadium Statement

Earlier this evening TVA has received an email from the Minnesota Vikings on their current stadium situation. It reads…

"The Vikings are concerned about the turn of events surrounding a stadium solution in Minnesota. While we have been encouraged by the efforts of Governor Dayton and the four caucus leaders to seriously discuss this issue, these recent developments are very disappointing. The Vikings stadium issue has been heavily debated in the public for over 10 years. With less than 90 days left on the team’s lease, the urgency to act is on us.The Vikings continue to stand ready to work with State leaders on a stadium solution that works for Minnesota and the team."

The recent developments the team is referring to is Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton stating there is not enough support in the Legislature to exempt any proposed tax increase for a Vikings stadium from a public vote and Minnesota Speaker of the House Kurt Zellers saying he would not support a 2011 special session. As most know the team had plans to build a $1.1 billion stadium in Arden Hills where $350 million would come from the state. Without the exemption the vote cannot be held until November of 2012, which is long after the team’s current lease on the Metrodome expires and the team would be in essence “free agents” able to explore other areas to play. The most mentioned area to play is Los Angeles be it relocation or Zygi Wilf selling the team to another owner.

It is difficult to have this conversation without taking a strong political view. However, we at TVA would be lead to believe an overwhelming majority of our readers would prefer the team to stay in Minnesota. If anyone is interested in seeing what they can do to help, feel free to contact our friends over at SavetheVikes.org.

Jon Merckle may be followed on Twitter @thevikingpig