Minnesota Legislature
PRESS RELEASE
Rochester DFL Delegation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 17, 2026
House Contact: Marlee Schlegel | marlee.schlegel@house.mn.gov
Senate Contact: Jack Vinck | jack.vinck@mnsenate.gov
Revocation of Rochester Sports Complex Sales Tax Authorization Excluded from 2026 Tax Bill
ST. PAUL, Minn. — Earlier this year, the Rochester DFL delegation expressed their intent to revoke funding for a multi-million dollar regional sports complex in Rochester, after its projected costs ballooned and building plans became significantly different from what was approved by voters.
As the legislature ends the 2026 legislative session, the negotiated agreement on the Tax bill does not include any local option sales tax provisions, which means that the Rochester Sports Complex sales tax revocation bill is not expected to pass this year. In response, the delegation released the following statement:
“After outreach from many constituents who feel ignored by the Rochester city government, and many efforts to ensure that this project reflects the desires of our constituents, we acted on our duty to represent our community at the state level. We are disappointed that our bill to repeal the state’s authorization for the Rochester sports complex will not pass this year.
“We will continue to advocate for our constituents who feel misled by the unfulfilled promises that induced them to vote for extension of Rochester’s local option sales tax. To regain the trust of the community, the Rochester City Council must be transparent about the project and its details moving forward. This includes listening to and acting on the needs and voices of Rochester residents. We will be watching closely, and expect more from our city government as the Sports Complex comes to fruition.”
The Rochester DFL Delegation includes Senator Liz Boldon (25), Representative Kim Hicks (25A), Representative Andy Smith (25B), and Representative Tina Liebling (24B).
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