(KLZA)-- The Auburn City Council took another step toward possibly building a convention center Monday night.

Mayor Scott Kudrna said the Council approved an option to purchase two pieces of real estate in the Grandview Addition for the facility. The properties are between the bowling alley and the ESU #4 building along Highway 136.

Next spring, Auburn voters will decide whether or not an additional half-cent sales tax will be approved to pay for the project. The initial estimated cost for the project is two – three million dollars.

Mayor Kudrna cast the deciding vote after the Council split 3-3. Council members Jeff Jennerett, Tom Clark and Rick Janssen cast nay votes with Council members Katie Billings, Chris Erickson and Shawn Clark voting in favor 

Mayor Kudrna said architects needed a proposed site to help determine the cost if the project. 

One of the properties is owned by the bowling alley and the option to purchase is $32,500. The Caspers property to the east has a price tag of $65,000.