ST. PAUL-Retail experts see the city's $6.3-million subsidy as a good investment, pointing out other cities such as Minneapolis have spent much more to retain or attract department store. Little retail is left Downtown.

DETROIT-A tax surplus from fund created to build the Tigers' Comerica Park will be used to help develop the Pinnacle Aeropark, a 1,200-acre mixed use development plan

AUSTIN-The Real Estate Council of Austin has elected its 2001 officers. Jerry Winetroub will steer this year's activities for the 850-member organization.

ATLANTA-Forsyth County and the Trust for Public Land bought Sawnee Mountain and the 295 acres on which it stands from various landowners for $6 million or $20,339 per acre. The purchase was made to preserve the mountain in the face of rapid development in one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. The mountain is 35 miles north of Downtown.