BOONE, Iowa—The Boone City Council took official action Monday night, to make a written proposal to the Boone Community Theatre Board of Directors which would assist the Community Theatre with efforts to re-locate. The vote was 5-to-2 and followed discussion about particulars of financing and demolition costs. The written proposal had been requested by the Boone Community Theatre Board of Directors so they will have something in hand to discuss. Christopher Levi is the President of the Community Theatre Board and says the board does not have certain direction or plan in place. He says they are looking forward to working with the city on the matter.
The Community Theatre secured the former Garfield School building in 2005 and have called that location home since then. Finances to maintain the facility has also been a concern. The group has produced 61 different shows at their present location and the 62nd will take place later this month.
The proposal calls for the city to make available funding to assist in relocation efforts, while eventually securing the building and proceeding with demolition. The financial assistance would be Hotel/Motel Tax proceeds of $10,000 a year for five years. The Boone Community Theatre Board will now have to consider the written proposal and decide if they wish to move forward or decline the offer.
A recent external inspection raised some questions about the condition of the building and it’s long term future. Now that the city is aware of some structural issues, they also have a responsibility of addressing the matter in a timely fashion. Meanwhile, the Boone Community Theatre Board has not been able to locate a suitable building to house the troupe. Prior to the acquisition of the Garfield School, Community Theatre used multiple venues, including the Boone City Hall auditorium for a few years.
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