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ELMIRA, N.Y. -- In the latest twist in the ongoing story between the Elmira Jackals and First Arena, Jackals ownership has declined an offer to play the upcoming season rent-free in the arena.

The offer was made by the arena's owner, Southern Tier Economic Development, and the future owner, Elm Arena LLC, which is owned by Tom Freeman. Freeman said Elm Arena would pay the utility and insurance bills and keep the profits from concessions while the Jackals would keep all money from ticket sales and merchandise. Jackals ownership declined the offer. While Freeman is confident a deal will be worked out for the upcoming season, beyond that is still up in the air.

"We've been willing to entertain talks on a long-term basis and will do that. And in the event that that's not successful, we're going to look at other professional hockey as a backup option," said Tom Freeman.

Last month, the former arena operator filed for bankruptcy delaying the process of the arena ownership changing hands. Freeman said that process could take anywhere from four to six months.