Using Tax Policy to Support Job Creation at the Mall of America
The Mall of America (MOA) is the largest tourist attraction in Minnesota, and has more than 40 million visitors each year. Last year the MOA had a small increase in sales while retailers all over the world were hurt by the poor economy. In 2010, Senator Kelash supported bi-partisan tax overhaul legislation that allows the Mall of America to use previously approved special local taxes and revenue bonds to expand its operations through the construction of a new adjoining hotel.
The jobs result? During the two years of construction, the hotel project will employ 750 construction workers, engineers, architects and their staffs. Once the hotel becomes operational, it is estimated that the hotel will employ 700 permanent positions.
The new hotel will offer first class accommodations and services for around 500 rooms, as well as upscale meeting rooms and food service. The hotel will be built on the south side of the Mall between Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s and will include three levels of parking and skyway access.
