SARTELL -- Officials in Sartell are keeping a close tab on what is happening at the state Capitol. If a bonding bill is not included in this year's session, plans for the new Sauk River Park and Nature Area will be put on hold.

The city council agreed to purchase 47 acres of land from the G & M Dehler Trust and the Wollak Development in February for nearly $950,000.

Outgoing city administrator Patti Gartland told the council on Monday that without the bill, the city will not be able to get the $500,000 in allocated funds reauthorized from a 2008 bonding bill, which expired at the end of 2012.

According to the purchase agreement, the city has until October to close on the deal. However, without re-authorization from lawmakers, Gartland says the project will be delayed.

Additional funds for the project will include $500,000 and a %10 local match from a Legacy Amendment grant. Lawmakers have less than a week remaining to wrap up all items, including a budget for the next two years.

The new park will be located between Whitney Park and Stearns County Road 120.

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