JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The lease of the Frontier Village in Jamestown has been in limbo since earlier this year.

In a September meeting, it was discussed that the National Buffalo Museum had interest in expanding their current lease to encompass the Frontier Village. A decision was not made.

During the October 22nd Civic Center & Promotion Committee meeting, members of the Frontier Village Association had Attorney Matthew Sorensen with Vogel Law Firm in Fargo speak on their behalf.

Sorensen stated that he understood the rift that had developed between the city and Frontier Village Association. He said the city’s hesitation to work with the group had also created some unknown’s with the board.

Sorensen remarked that because of the “city’s inaction” on the lease, the Frontier Village Association would look at what to do with their collection.

Sorensen stated that if immediate action was not taken, the Frontier Village Association would consider moving their entire collection to other museum’s and frontier towns.

A one-year renewal was recommended by the attorney.

City Councilmember Pam Phillips gave her stance on the situation, saying it was time there was a change in management of the property.

Councilmember Dan Buchanan asked Sorensen if they were to look at renewing a one-year lease for the association, if they would be open to benchmarks within the agreement.

Sorensen stated that the association would be willing to meet and discuss possible terms.

Following discussion, councilmember Phillips made the motion to submit a request for proposals to take the lease over starting in 2020 after the current lease is up.

The committee agreed with councilmember Buchanan voting in opposition.