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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 24, 2012 Page 18 Regarding the $1.6 million included in the 2012 acquisition proposals highlight- ed by Councilmember Pust, Mr. Brokke advised that staff was currently in dis- cussion with landowners to determine their interest in negotiating a land sale; but clarified that no offers had been made to-date; and that no appraisals had been solicited until interest of property owners had been determined. Mr. Brokke specified that the two (2) acquisition sites included the former Mounds View School District site and the Press Gym property adjacent to an existing Roseville Park. Mr. Brokke advised that, if and when the property owner indi- cated their interest in proceeding, appraisal would then be ordered. At the request of Councilmember Pust as to any intent to close either or both of those sales in 2012, Mr. Brokke advised that staff anticipated being able to do so, but at this time nothing was definite; and confirmed that the 2011 approved bonding had been allocated for those purchases. Mr. Miller advised that it had been staff's intent to proceed with those discus- sions earlier, but they had been prevented from doing so over a 7-8 month peri- od or spending of any of those proceeds due to pending litigation, further delay- ing discussions with land owners. Councilmember Pust clarified that she was not implying that staff was not doing anything; but noted that not all of the bond proceeds would be for maintenance, with 40% for land acquisition or new purchases. Mayor Roe clarified that those acquisition funds had been designated in the Phase 1 bond issue. Councilmember Pust noted that, while it was part of the dollar figure already approved, it was asked to move up with the rest of the proposed $17 million phase before the City Council tonight. Mayor Roe noted that the original plan was to approve $10 million in May of 2012 and the final $7 million in December of 2012. Councilmember Pust recognized this intent and that the proposal was to now do all approvals at once. In order to get financing secured, provide the fire station with the remainder of funding needed to complete construction, and the Parks Department more con- fidence to schedule park and pathway improvements, all representing a signifi- cant endeavor, Finance Director Miller advised that the proposed action would provide staff confidence to strategize and stage logistics for those various pro- jects.