The deal for a new Twins ballpark, "already slowed by
shifting financial facts and hardened public opposition,
showed signs of completely unraveling Wednesday," according
to Whereatt & Weiner in the Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE. There
were also "calls for the resignation of" Minnesota Sports
Facilities Commission Chair Henry Savelkoul. Dee Long,
State House Tax Committee Chair "questioned" the role played
by Savelkoul, who is also MN Gov. Arne Carlson's chief
negotiator on the issue. Long said Savelkoul hasn't kept
his fellow commissioners informed and hasn't represented the
public's interest. Savelkoul said he will not step down,
adding that he spoke to Twins officials and others involved
in the ballpark talks: "They basically suggested it wouldn't
be a good idea to quit" (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 1/30).
STILL HAS FAR TO GO: Paul Thatcher, Chair of the MSFC's
finance committee, said that he had spoken to a "handful" of
legislators Wednesday: "We have to start all over with new
leadership. I think [Savelkoul's] credibility is flawed."
State Senate Minority Leader Dean Johnson said, "We know we
have to reframe it, redo it," adding Twins Owner Carl Pohlad
should come up with a new plan. Twins President Jerry Ball
said that the team is open to alternatives, "though it has
none in mind" (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 1/30).
