March 8, 2002 - A plan to fund a new Twins ballpark -- and possible a Vikings stadium -- is on its way to the full Senate for consideration. On a 17-to-10 vote the Senate Tax Committee approved the measure which draws on user fees and a variety of specialized taxes to finance the plan. The legislation also requires a referendum before the facility's host community could impose local sales taxes to support construction. Even as the package is picking up steam, however, it's getting mixed reactions from the teams that would benefit. Minnesota Public Radio's Michael Khoo reports.
March 5, 2002 - (NOTE HOST OUTCUE) Tonight (TUESDAY) marks the start of the 2002 campaign season. The state's four major parties hold precinct caucuses this evening -- the first step towards the state conventions later this year and ultimately the governor's mansion and U.S. Senate. The neighborhood meetings take on a special significance this year since most of the major candidates have agreed to step out of the race if they don't win party backing. Minnesota Public Radio's Michael Khoo reports.
March 1, 2002 -
February 26, 2002 -
February 15, 2002 - MPR's Michael Khoo reports that the ballpark debate has returned to the state Capitol on two fronts and lawmakers seem more receptive to stadium plans than in past years. A Senate committee gave the green light to a proposal for a St. Paul Twins ballpark and House lawmakers introduced legislation to construct a joint Vikings and University of Minnesota football facility. But opposition hasn't faded entirely.
February 14, 2002 -
February 8, 2002 -
February 6, 2002 - MPR’s Michael Khoo reports on potential downtown ballpark site discussions. Alabama businessman Donald Watkins was in Minneapolis to assess potential ballpark sites. Watkins is exploring a possible purchase of the Minnesota Twins and has pledged to build a new stadium entirely with private dollars if he's able to acquire the team. Meanwhile, Governor Jesse Ventura says he hasn't changed his stance on a ballpark, despite a willingness to call a special session if lawmakers can't address the issue in the regular course of business.
February 5, 2002 - By letting stand a lower court ruling that binds the Minnesota Twins to the Metrodome for another season, a Minnesota Supreme Court order all but guarantees that plans to eliminate the team will be put on hold for at least the coming year. While the team is disappointed with the court's decision, the team's landlord and fans are embracing the news.
January 23, 2002 -