Q&A: Metzen Supports Funding of Vikings Stadium With Racino Dollars

The Minnesota State Legislature is currently exploring the possibility of constructing a new stadium for the Minnesota Vikings. Recently, Patch discussed the issue with District 39 Sen. Jim Metzen (DFL). To find out how Rep. Joe Atkins feels on the issue, .

Inver Grove Heights Patch: Are you in favor of the construction of a new Vikings stadium?

District 39 Sen. Jim Metzen (DFL): Yes.

Patch: Where do you believe this stadium should be constructed? 

Sen. Metzen: I think the owner should probably have his way. If he’s going to stick in $500 million and he wants it in Arden Hills that would be my first choice.

Patch: Your first choice would be Arden Hills?

Sen. Metzen: Yeah, because that’s where the owner wants to go. And I think that’d be good for the whole community out there.

Patch: What type of funding do you think should be used to finance this stadium?

Sen. Metzen: I would support racino dollars. And let me tell you what. First of all, there’s 18 casinos already, and quite frankly, they’re expanding all the time. And if you give 2,000 machines to the Running Aces and 2,000 to the Shakopee racetrack, it would bring in $160 million a year or so. That would be our contribution. Here’s the point I want to make very clear with you, is that it’s a voluntary thing. If you don’t go there and gamble and it bothers you, just don’t do it. 

Patch: Where does this proposal fall on your priority list and how involved are you in the efforts to make the new Viking’s stadium happen?

Sen. Metzen: I’m not a new guy in this camp ... This would be a perfect venue, I think, to help keep the Vikings in the state of Minnesota. I think they’re an asset to the state and the region.

Patch:  Thanks so much, Senator Metzen. I really appreciate your time.