RELEASE: MSFA Reform Needed After Investigation Shows Security Vendor Missteps

MSFA Reform Needed After Investigation Reveals Security Vendor Mismanaged Background Checks, Training

St. Paul- It was reported Tuesday that the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) and stadium operator SMG had terminated their contract with security vendor Monterrey Security after an investigation revealed issues with background checks, training and record-keeping. As a result of their contract with SMG, Monterrey Security has been awarded $4.2 million since U.S. Bank Stadium opened. Rep. Sarah Anderson, R-Plymouth, chair of the House State Government Finance Committee and chief author of MSFA reform legislation issued the following statement in response.

“Today's outcome is not surprising given the systemic failure of former MSFA leaders to put the best interests of the public first. The MSFA has known for years that the stadium's security vendor has a history of troubling legal and performance issues. This summer, I repeatedly raised these concerns with the MSFA, the Private Detective Board and the Office of the Legislative Auditor.

"Any security firm for the stadium is responsible for protecting a $1 billion public asset and, more importantly, is charged with keeping over 65,000 Minnesotans safe at any given event. Their credentials deserve more than the cursory glance given by board members more interested in private luxury suites.

"So long as the Dayton Administration resists major reform of the MSFA, taxpayers will be stuck with a lemon and may never know the true extent of mismanagement by the former leadership team. Like a bad car, I fear we will continue to feel the impact of their poor decisions for years to come. More than ever, when Minnesotans' safety is at stake, it is imperative we move forward with MSFA reforms I proposed this session.”

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