Fargo voters reject FARGODOME plan

Fargo residents on Tuesday narrowly rejected a .25 sales tax and a lodging tax to pay for expansion and renovation of the FARGODOME.

The project would have added exhibition and conference space to the 30 year old building – plus a new plaza. The price-tag was pegged at $140 million dollars.

The unofficial tally showed 51.73% of the voters supported the increases – short of the 60% majority need to pass.

Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney issued a statement after the count saying “The people of Fargo have spoken. But the fact remains that the FARGODOME needs critical upgrades.” Mahoney says the city will regroup and decide the next steps over the coming months.

Fargo Dome Authority member Dave Suppes added: “We should look to Grand Forks, a neighboring community that is improving the amenities at its conference center. We need to be on par with regional cities so we can compete.”

Vote: 7,968 voters cast ballots (4,122 yes; 3,846 no)