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Ted Mondale To Lead Key Minn. Stadium Panel

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Former state Sen. Ted Mondale gained the lead spot Friday on the commission that operates the Metrodome, giving him a role in the debate over a new Minnesota Vikings stadium.

Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton appointed Mondale the chairman of the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission.

The most pressing issue before the commission is how to fix the Dome's collapsed roof. The roof fell under the weight of snow in December but may take until spring to repair. Also, the Vikings' Metrodome lease expires after the coming season.

In a news release, Dayton described Mondale as "uniquely qualified" to lead the commission at a critical time.

"His exceptional dedication to public service, his business experience and his established relationships with key decision-makers will enable him to represent the best interests of the people of Minnesota in attempting to negotiate a new 'People's Stadium,"' Dayton said.

The Vikings plan to push for public financing toward a new football stadium during the legislative session. The current Metrodome site is one of a few the team is looking at as the location for a new stadium.

The commission consists of seven members, six of whom are appointed by the Minneapolis City Council.

Mondale is the son of former vice president Walter Mondale.

He was chairman of the Metropolitan Council, a regional planning council, under then-Gov. Jesse Ventura. He served in Minnesota's Senate from 1991 to 1996. More recently, he has served as chief executive of a software company that automates property searches for the mortgage industry.

Mondale last ran for office in 1998, when he finished fifth in a Democratic gubernatorial primary that also included Dayton.

Mondale pleaded guilty to drunken driving in 2007 after refusing a breath-alcohol test. He had been to a Twins game and out dining with friends afterward.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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