While the "special legislative stadium task force" in MN
studying a new Twins and, possible Vikings, stadium reviewed
finance plans from across the country, "mostly, members of
the task force wondered aloud how any stadium solution -- for
any pro sports team -- could be a lasting one if 21-year-old
Kevin Garnett ... could turn down a $103.5 million, six-year
contract offer," according to Jay Weiner in the Minneapolis
STAR TRIBUNE. State Rep. Dee Long, on Garnett rejecting the
T-Wolves offer: "It will affect the public's perception. We
have an industry that is ailing because management is unable
to control labor costs." Twins President Jerry Bell: "It's
hard for me to see how Kevin Garnett turning down $103
million has much to do with building a stadium for the Twins
... I don't think the Twins have ever acted irresponsibly."
Weiner: "Still, while sports were being mixed, the message
from political leaders was singular: The Garnett contract
refusal 'impacts very negatively' on taxpayer's attitudes
towards pro sports" (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 8/14).
