KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The future of Kemper Arena might not be decided for months, after Kansas City Council members agreed to seek alternatives to a plan by the American Royal to tear down the arena and replace it with a new building.

The American Royal pitched its proposal again on Thursday to two council committees. But several critics told the council members the city has better ways to spend $20 million in taxpayer money that the Royal’s plan would require.

The Kansas City Star reports the council’s decision to investigate other alternatives means a decision on the arena’s future might be delayed for months.

Noting the strong opposition at Thursday’s meeting, Councilman Ed Ford said council members believe they legally should put out a notice seeking other proposals for the arena.