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Commissioners Want Referendum On Stadium Tax

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The Ramsey County Charter Commission is on record opposing any attempt to circumvent the referendum process and legislatively impose a countywide 0.5 percent sales tax to raise money for a new Minnesota Vikings Stadium in Arden Hills.

The commission also acknowledged Wednesday night that it has no direct power to direct state legislation. Commissioners are concerned a tax would be imposed without taxpayer input through a ballot referendum. A resolution authored by Rod Halvorson, and passed 10-3, says the commission "would oppose any effort to circumvent the referendum process." Halvorson referred to a plan approved by the Legislature and then-Gov. Tim Pawlenty which allowed Hennepin County commissioners to vote on a tax for the Minnesota Twins new stadium without putting the issue on the ballot.

The St. Paul Pioneer Press says commissioners also passed a resolution that states the commission would exceed its authority in any attempt to direct state legislation.

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 This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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