By Rochelle Olson

Minneapolis Star Tribune

The food served up to guests in two state-owned luxury suites at U.S. Bank Stadium cost taxpayers $32,120, according to a letter sent by the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) to three GOP legislators who are investigating use of two suites. Many suite guests were friends and family of MSFA members.

House Government Finance Committee Chairwoman Sarah Anderson, R-Plymouth, said Tuesday she will seek reimbursement for the food cost when her committee delves into the MSFA operation and use of the suites.

Anderson commented on a 27-page document sent by the MSFA in response to questions last month from her, Senate Finance Chairwoman Julie Rosen, R-Vernon Center, and Sen. Mary Kiffmeyer, R-Big Lake.

Anderson and Rosen, who was a sponsor of the 2012 legislation that got the stadium built with nearly $500 million in public money, say they will lead Republican efforts to examine the MSFA’s operations this session.

In response to lawmakers’ questions, the MSFA revealed a few new details, including the cost of the food, who got free parking passes and an acknowledgment that there was a quorum of commissioners at one Vikings game, but that it wasn’t illegal.