Host committee for RNC disappointed with lack of state help

Minneapolis (AP) — The local host committee for the Republican National Convention says it's disappointed the state didn't follow through on promised financial help.

In a letter obtained by The Associated Press, local host committee chief executive Jeff Larson tells Governor Tim Pawlenty and legislative leaders that he's disappointed and has a "grave cause for concern."

As the host committee was trying to lure the convention to St. Paul, it negotiated a package that included a state commitment to back the committee's fundraising with a letter of credit that would be tapped if there's a cash flow shortage.

The Legislature didn't pass a bill seeking a $39 million letter of credit in 2007. And in 2008, a smaller amount of $14 million also wasn't approved.

Legislative leaders didn't respond Friday to requests for comment. A host committee spokeswoman says the committee has met its fundraising goals so far.