HUTCHINSON — The Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday gave approval to put a sales tax question for the Hutchinson Sports Arena renovation project on the April ballot.

The city is trying to keep the Men’s National Junior College Basketball Tournament at the Sports Arena.

If approved by voters a .35 per cent sales tax would be used to fund $29 million in renovations to the arena.

The action came following a letter from the National Junior College Athletic Association that stated they were ready to sign a 25-year contract to keep the tournament in Hutchinson, provided the sales tax vote passed.

The NCJAA had indicated that they might seek a new venue for the tournament if the improvements were not made.

The renovations to the arena include new entryways, ADA compliant restrooms and seating, new heating and air conditioning, improved locker rooms and media space and two new gyms that would include training facilities and more storage.