Ramsey County's proposed sales tax is so much bigger than what Hennepin County levied for the Target Field because Ramsey County, which is smaller and less populous, generates far fewer sales. But the prospect of higher sales taxes - St. Paul would have the highest basic sales tax in the state if the plan were approved - creates a potential political pitfall.
St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman appears to be keenly aware of that.
On Thursday, Coleman repeated he is undecided about the plan but expressed a number of reservations.
"I'm looking to get more details on the numbers before I know where I'm at," he said, emphasizing that he likes the Arden Hills site and supports the idea of keeping the team in Minnesota. "Whether it has direct benefit for the city of St. Paul is one of the things I'll be asking because, frankly, a huge chunk of that sales tax would be generated within the city of St. Paul."
Calling the Vikings a "statewide asset," Coleman challenged the assumption in the entire stadium discussion that a host unit of government be called on to pay a major share of the cost. "There are fairer ways to do this," said Coleman, who said he has not been part of stadium discussions.
He suggested a statewide liquor tax. "If you put a penny a drink - not 1 percent, a penny - you could pay debt service on $250 million worth of indebtedness," he said.
State Senator Goodwin's eyes lit up when she heard the idea. "I like that. I might be able to support that," she said.