In the Waning Hours

It is Saturday morning and the Tax Conference Committee is at it again, taking up specific projects, tax law amendments and other reforms that will cap off the 2008 session. In these waning hours, supporters of MOA Phase II must continue to be vigilant in their quest to create the spark for the largest commercial project in Minnesota history. People from all over the world have come here to see this unique family destination. To keep them coming, we have got to keep it new, keep it fresh and keep it exciting, and that takes investment. Investment in public infrastructure will come from the public sector and comprise just 17 percent of the $2.1 billion project. Investment in the private attractions and retail will come from owners, investors, lenders and others, and represents the vast majority of new dollars into the project.

We must remember to encourage and thank the lawmakers who have supported the project, and continue to listen with respect to those who still have questions. In the end, we believe this will get done this legislative session because it is the right thing to do for Minnesota, it is good for Minnesota families who need jobs, and it is a great attraction on which to build the state's reputation as an international tourism destination.

Thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to make this opportunity possible!