Getting Over on The Donald

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the valley, Donald Trump resurfaces. Last week, The Donald made a $20 million offer on the Running Horse development. As Fresnans know, this was a low-ball offer. However, given the state of things, there was the possibility that owner Mick Evans would bite.

Evans not only turned down the offer, but has stated that there are several others interested. Curious. At one point, the PGA was planning on a course located at Running Horse, but that has gone bye-bye.

What Trump and others are hoping, I would guess, is that they can get the PGA back. It’s Donald Trump. He probably can.

Trump has now offered $40 million. Half up front and half on the back-end. Evans has said that there is another offer of that same amount, but with more money up-front. He has said he will respond to Trump by Friday.

Trump is not just interested in the course, but as part of the deal:

The new offer contains the same conditions Trump has been demanding throughout the negotiations, Cohen said Wednesday. Those include the possible use of government powers of eminent domain to acquire private property to complete the project, closing California Avenue and historic Kearney Boulevard where they run through Running Horse and revitalizing thousands of acres around the project.

While one has to question any deal that Mayor Autry supports, this may be our one best chance to save that part of the city.