SALES TAX FOR STADIUM? WIN THE WORLD SERIES!

A proposal making its way through the Missouri Legislature would allow the St. Louis Cardinals to keep the state's portion of sales-tax revenue generated at Busch Stadium. The money -- about $6 million a year -- would be earmarked to replace the 34-year-old Busch Stadium.

This funding concept for a new stadium would replace the method that has been used in the past: taxing all Missourians. Kansas City would use similar sales-tax revenue to finance upgrades to the Truman Sports Complex facilities where the Chiefs and Royals play.

The Cardinals have been contemplating a $250 million ballpark. Of course, this sales-tax plan might not be enough to pay the entire cost.

Such a proposal also might draw the ire of other groups involved with concert halls or museums. But their on-site sales tax income wouldn't come close to generating the kind of dollars of professional b aseball and football teams.

Whether you're a football fan or not, your tax dollars helped to finance the Trans World Dome in St. Louis. Some $300 million in bonds were sold to finance the stadium and convention center expansion. The state paid 50 percent of bond financing, and the city and county each paid 25 percent. The state's share came through Missouri's convention and sports fund, which has funneled millions of dollars to projects across the state.

In retrospect, the Rams stadium may seem like a good idea these days, since the stadium is home to the Super Bowl champs. That will spur ticket sales and tourism efforts for Missouri. Now the St. Louis Blues hockey team is in contention for the Stanley Cup.

Is there any way that a new stadium can be tied to a World Series win? If the Cardinals win, they get a new stadium. If not, the Cards would have to stay in Busch Stadium. After all, if taxpayers are to do their share for a new stadium, certainly the team should carry their load.

A triple crown -- Super Bowl, Stanley Cup and World Series -- in a single year might put Missouri taxpayers in a generous mood. Just a thought.