A proposal to purchase property to the northwest of the Bismarck Municipal Airport is getting a cool reception from city commissioners.

Earlier this year, the commission gave airport manager Greg Haug permission to research the purchase of property that will be used to provide a protection zone for runway 13. His report at Tuesday's meeting didn't generate a lot of enthusiasm from commissioners, who tabled the issue.

Haug has been dealing with three property owners, with Steve McCormick holding the largest portion. The land is located just across Airport Road and also is referred to as the Shamrock Industrial Park.

The Federal Aviation Administration promotes airports purchasing land at the end of the runways to provide a safety buffer. The FAA will likely fund the entire purchase.

Commissioner Sandi Tabor asked Haug if he had expected the $4 million asking price. The airport manager said he hadn't anticipated that high a price, but added the property will have to go through an appraisal per FAA regulations.

Haug said the first part of the process is to do an environmental assessment and appraisal of the property if the owners agree. Estimated cost of the work is $14,600.

Haug asked the commission to approve a letter of intent to keep the process moving. He hoped to have contracts for environmental services and an appraisal by the commission's next meeting.

Funds for the purchase could come from two sources, said Haug: the Airport Improvement Program or passenger facility charge.

Commissioner Steve Schwab said that a portion of the land is low-lying and does collect a lot of water. He added that it seemed like a lot of money for a swamp. Haug said if the airport purchased the land, it could be used to help alleviate some drainage problems.

Commissioner Dave Jensen asked what would happen if the city didn't purchase the property.

Haug said the property would likely stay the way it is today, largely undeveloped. He expects some of it will develop over time. The property is directly under the routes planes use to take off and land, and there are restrictions on what can be constructed. The noise alone would likely keep most businesses from locating there, Haug said.

Mayor John Warford asked what would happen to the property if the city did purchase it. Haug responded that it would be left undeveloped to increase the safety margin in case of a crash.

"This is all in the interest of aviation safety," Haug said.

But commissioners remained unconvinced, and Schwab's motion to table the item was approved unanimously.

(Reach reporter Gordon Weixel at 250-8255 or gordon.weixel@bismarcktribune.com.)