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City of Glendale is ‘cautiously optimistic’ about Coyotes being sold by end of 2011

Coyotes Sale Hockey

Phoenix Coyotes fan Julie Done holds up a sign in support of the team during the Glendale (Ariz.) City Council meeting Tuesday, May 10, 2011, in Glendale. After hours of testimony and discussion, the council voted 5-2 late Tuesday night to give the NHL $25 million for arena operating costs for next season. It’s the second $25 million Glendale will have forked over. The city did the same a year ago and the league collected that cash out of escrow last week. (AP Photo/The Arizona Republic, David Kadlubowski) MARICOPA COUNTY OUT NO SALES

AP

The Phoenix Coyotes and the City of Glendale’s ownership saga has been full of so many low moments and false beacons of hope that it’s understandable that many people might be jaded about the situation at this point. That being said, the two sides found a new light at the end of the tunnel in former San Jose Sharks executive Greg Jamison, whose offer reportedly wouldn’t even require the use of bonds - the main sticking point that drove Matt Hulsizer’s potential deal into the ground.

In fact, positivity is rising to the point that some Glendale officials brought up the seemingly far-flung idea of the Coyotes being sold to Jamison’s group or one other mystery ownership group before the end of 2011. Of course, the key phrase from Lisa Halverstadt’s report is that “they are cautiously optimistic.” If you’ve followed this situation during the last few years, you’re probably aware that the situation can turn on a dime - the hope here is that it makes a rare pivot toward the good side of things, though.

It’s important to note that there are still some significant area politicians who haven’t even seen Jamison’s offer and the exact terms (i.e. the amount offer) have not been disclosed yet either.

Council members, who returned last week after summer break, say they are heartened by the progress. Manny Martinez and Joyce Clark, who spoke with The Republic, are hopeful that a deal could close before the end of the year.

Vice Mayor Steve Frate said he was happy to hear about potential owners who see a promising future for the Coyotes.

“They are two entities that believe this business franchise, if run properly, is a good investment,” he said.

Council members Norma Alvarez and Phil Lieberman did not attend the latest closed-door briefing and said they needed to see proposals before they could support them.


So, again, it’s important to note that the team and city have a long way to go from “cautiously optimistic” to pouring champagne over each others’ heads after the ink dries on a new agreement. That being said, there have been many bleak moments in this situation, so you cannot fault Glendale officials for seeming a bit giddy with the idea of a legitimate suitor coming along.

As always, we’ll let you know the latest details as the next twists and turns take place.