STATE OF MINNESOTA THIRD MEETING
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES EIGHTY-FOURTH SESSION
TOURISM DIVISION
MINUTES
Representative Larry Howes, Chair of the Tourism Division, called the third meeting to order at 12:40 p.m. on Thursday, February 17, 2005, in Room 200 of the State Office Building.
The Clerk noted the roll.
Members present:
HOWES, Larry Chairman
DAVIDS, Greg
GAZELKA, Paul
JAROS, Mike
MOE, Frank
POWELL, Duke
SAILER, Brita
SIMPSON, Dean
A quorum was present.
Rep. Sailer moved that the minutes from the meeting of February 9, 2005 be approved.
The motion prevailed.
Karolyn Kirchgesler, President of the St. Paul Convention and Visitors Bureau, gave an overview of the economic impact of tourism and travel in St. Paul. Ms. Kirchgesler discussed the potential for conventions and meetings and the importance of the Excel Energy Center and the River Centre. She also explained the sporting event bidding process. Ms. Kirchgesler then answered questions from members.
Greg Ortale, CEO of the Greater Minneapolis Convention and Visitors Association, gave an overview of the Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Market.
Rep. Moe assumed the gavel at 1:10 p.m.
Mr. Ortale testified that the Minneapolis Convention Center should be considered an investment to the state of Minnesota and outlined the benefits.
Rep. Howes re-assumed the gavel at 1:20 p.m.
Mr. Ortale answered questions from members.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:40 p.m.
Rep. Larry Howes, CHAIR
Emily Skidmore
Committee Legislative Assistant