Office of the Legislative Auditor - Financial Audit Division

Report Summary
Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission
Financial Statements Audit

 

Financial Audit Division Report 11-20

Released July 26, 2011

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Conclusion

• The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission’s financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2010, were fairly presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, in all material respects.
• The commission’s internal controls for selected financial operations were adequate to safeguard receipts and assets, accurately pay employees and vendors in accordance with management’s authorization, produce reliable financial information, and comply with finance-related legal requirements.
• The commission complied with applicable finance-related legal requirements for the items we tested.

Audit Objectives and Scope

Audit Objectives:

• To provide an opinion on the commission’s financial statements.
• To review internal controls over selected financial operations.
• To determine compliance with applicable finance-related legal requirements.

Audit Period: The fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.

Areas Audited
Cash and Investments Concessions Operating Expenses	Capital Assets Revenues Payroll Expenses

Background

The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission is comprised of six commissioners appointed by the Minneapolis City Council and a chair appointed by the Governor. The commission operates the Metrodome sports stadium. The commission earned approximately $20 million in revenue and spent $24 million on operations during fiscal year 2010.

In December 2010, heavy snow and ice, combined with high winds, caused the Metrodome’s roof to collapse. The replacement of the roof should be completed by August 2011. The commission had insurance to cover all but $25,000 of the cost of replacement.

There is substantial doubt about the commission’s ability to continue its operation of the Metrodome. The loss of major tenants significantly reduced the commission’s operating revenue and the use agreement with its remaining major tenant, the Minnesota Vikings, ends at the conclusion of the 2011 football season.