The state won’t answer a simple question: Is it legally necessary for the city to hold a competitive bidding process to decide who will develop the 142-acre, city-owned waterfront property at Bader Field?

“Respectfully, we decline comment,” Department of Community Affairs spokesperson Lisa Ryan said in an email response Wednesday to the question.

Two competing proposals have been publicized for the largest undeveloped parcel in the city, surrounded by water on three sides. Read more from The Press of Atlantic City.