Council to Discuss Theater’s Future June 27

Just before Monday night's City Council meeting adjourned, newly minted asked whether or not a discussion of the future of the was scheduled soon.

responded the for a meeting of the Committee of the Whole prior to the regularly scheduled June 27 City Council meeting. Committee of the Whole gatherings are open to the public. 

“I heard we were going to be talking about it (the theater), but nothing was mentioned at the meeting,” Frank said, explaining the reasoning for his last minute inquiry. “I am happy to know we are going to be talking about it.” 

The Highland Park Theater has been a controversial issue since the city purchased it from its private owners more than two years ago. It was a burning topic during the campaign leading up to the April 5 election. 

Rotering plans take a tour of the theater property with the council before the June 27 meeting. She intends to gather enough information to discuss possibilities for the theater next month so the city can request proposals. 

“This is a classic business analysis,” Rotering said. “We’re going to figure out all the pieces and go from there. We’re going to gather information and identify opportunities.” 

The mayor said she is open to any and all possibilities. 

Frank hopes the June 27 gathering will generate an opportunity for the City Council to make requests for proposals for the theater’s future. 

“I’d like to see people come to the table to tell us what could be done with the building,” Frank said. “It could be an art center, a community center and an economic engine for the area,” Frank said. 

While Rotering emphasized the June 27 Committee of the Whole was not a full-fledged public hearing, she and the council are happy to hear from citizens about the theater. 

“We’re always interested to hear what the public has to say,” Rotering said. “They can call us or email us.” She indicated the public will have ample opportunity to offer their views.

Rotering also said after the meeting the City Council plans to appoint its seventh member June 27. According to Triblocal, the council has narrowed it down to five finalists.