Taste of Minnesota officials confirmed Thursday that a purchase agreement for the annual food-and-music festival has been signed, though a price wasn't disclosed. Looking to buy the 26-year-old festival are Cities 97 radio personality Brian (BT) Turner and event promoter Kevin Campbell.
"It's certainly not a done deal," said John Labosky, president and CEO of the Capital City Partnership. His group has owned the festival since 1996. "We have a framework for a deal."
The Capital City Partnership will manage this year's event, and terms of the sale will probably be addressed in August, Labosky said.
Turner could not be reached to comment.
Also on Thursday, organizers touted measures they say are making this year's event on Harriet Island nearly free of garbage. The event produces about 50 tons of trash and 5 tons of recyclable items, said Julie Ketchum of Waste Management, which handles garbage hauling and recycling for the festival.
Vendors are selling their foods in paper or biodegradable packaging, all of which was donated this year by Sam's Club.
Food waste will be taken to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chanhassen, where it will be composted. Cans and bottles will be recycled.
"The Taste of Minnesota is setting a brand new standard," said Anne Hunt, environmental policy director for St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman.
