“It doesn’t appear the county is willing to support the Glens Falls Civic Center as a public arena on an ongoing basis,” Diamond said.

The sports and concert arena opened in 1979. Its value has long been debated because of its financial losses, which the city must cover from its general fund.

The city budgeted a $605,350 subsidy for arena operations and debt for 2014.

But Global Spectrum, the arena management company, has projected a $920,543 shortfall for the year, based on current bookings, according to a report the mayor distributed recently to members of the Warren County Board of Supervisors.

Diamond said in an interview Wednesday at City Hall if the shortfall exceeds the amount budgeted, expenses above $605,350 would be carried over into the next budget year, as the arena has done in previous years.

The city Common Council must approve a local law to schedule the auction, but Diamond said at the press conference on Thursday he has spoken individually with Common Council members and they are supportive of his plan.

Contacted later on Thursday, 2nd Ward Councilman Bill Collins said council members are cautious, but agree “it would be irresponsible not to explore all options” for the building.