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Rybak's Vikings plan faces city council skeptics

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Dec 9, 2011 at 7:59 am

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Members of the Minneapolis City Council are reacting with skepticism to Mayor R.T. Rybak's plan to build a new Minnesota Vikings stadium at the current Metrodome site.

The Star Tribune reports the Thursday hearing was the mayor's first presentation to his council on his Vikings plan. Rybak is proposing the city contribute to new stadium construction by redirecting taxes that currently support its convention center.

Councilmember Lisa Goodman says she's opposed to seeing money from city taxpayers funneled to a private entity. Two council members said there should be a citywide referendum on the plan.

Rybak has backing from Council President Barbara Johnson, but no other supporters publicly emerged Thursday. Rybak acknowledged some strong opposition but says he believes most council members are "in the middle.''