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When Should Taxpayers Help a Private Project Get Off the Ground?

Private projects can bring in jobs and extra development, but when do they deserve government money?

A Dallas-based company asked Shakopee for $2.1 million in assistance to build a $67 million server farm that would create 40 jobs. The Mayo Clinic in Rochester wants the state to fund $500 million worth of infrastructure projects that would support the clinic’s planned $3.5 billion expansion. And then, of course, there are sports teams like the Twins, Vikings and Saints that have all convinced legislators to fund public stadiums. As these plans attest, major projects aren’t just about finding a business plan that works. They’re also about finding a governmental partner willing to share a portion of the costs in the hopes of creating jobs and economic benefits. Governments can waive taxes and fees, pay for associated infrastructure costs …

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1:23 am on Thursday, April 18, 2013

Completely Agree, Never!   more ›

Where Can You Watch the Vikings-Packers Playoff Game in Hopkins?

While you’re watching, give us your predictions and comment on the big plays, crucial calls and boneheaded decisions in our Cover it Live blog.

On Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Green Bay Packers, 37-34. Six days later, the teams will face each other again during a Wild Card Weekend grudge match. Kickoff takes place at 7 p.m. Saturday at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. But you don’t have to travel to Wisconsin to catch the action. The following Hopkins restaurants and bars will be showing the game. Big 10 Restaurant and Bar Hopkins Tavern on Main Mainstreet Bar and Grill Tuttle’s Eat Bowl Play Wild Boar And while you’re watching, give us your predictions and comment on the big plays, crucial calls and boneheaded decisions in our Cover it Live blog above.   Follow us on Twitter | Like us on Facebook | Sign up for our free daily newsletter | Check out Patch’s Pinterest boards

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