The Albert Lea City Council pushed back two items on its agenda pertaining to junior hockey to its next meeting on May 24 after it became apparent that neither the possible North American Hockey League proposal nor the Minnesota Junior Hockey League proposal would be ready for further discussion.

KIMT-TV in Mason City, Iowa, citing an unnamed person on the NAHL Board of Governors, reported Monday that the Albert Lea Thunder has been purchased and will be moved.

Terry Hughes, a firefighter from Crestwood, Ill., said he was working on a deal to purchase the Albert Lea franchise Saturday. Hughes could not be reached for comment Monday.

Representatives from the NAHL could not be reached for comment.

Albert Lea City Arena Manager Bob Furland said neither the NAHL or the MJHL team proposal people appeared to be ready to meet with the council Monday.

“I think the city wants to make sure they get approved from the league before they make a decision,” Furland said.

The City Council is waiting for a decision from the NAHL and the MJHL before moving forward.

Paul Willlett is working on trying to bring the Wisconsin Mustangs of the MJHL to Albert Lea. His deal is contingent upon a NAHL deal. If no NAHL deal is reached, then Willett plans to move forward. He sought pre-approval from the city before going to the MJHL with the deal in order to secure the facility first, he said. He will go to the MJHL Monday during its league meeting to seek approval for the move.