The city’s representative on St. John’s Sports and Entertainment – which operates Mile One Centre – says he’s surprised the Growlers have called a news conference for early this week.

Team owner, Dean MacDonald, will not comment on speculation about the future of the team and its association with Mile One.

MacDonald has been involved in a protracted series of negotiations with St. John’s Sports and Entertainment, since the Growlers won the Kelly Cup in June. Last month, MacDonald indicated the team was looking at other options for the franchise, and recently toured a new arena under construction in Trois-Rivieres, Quebec.

While St. John’s City Councillor Sandy Hickman won’t disclose any details, he says negotiations are still underway and they are hopeful for a positive outcome.

Hickman says he hopes that something will be resolved by Tuesday.

He says he can only remain hopeful that they are satisfied with their latest offer.

The Growlers news conference is set for 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Delta Hotel. VOCM News will be there.