The Ouray City Council is split on whether to pursue purchasing a tract of land for affordable housing, but agreed to initiate the appraisal process to find out how much it would cost.

Under a 2008 development agreement, the city has the option to purchase a property at the corner of Hinkson Terrace and Silver Shield Trail. Owner Craig Hinkson told the council at a work session Monday there is another interested buyer, prompting him to approach the city about exercising its option to purchase the...