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Commission renews partnership with Buskirk-Chumley Theater; $74,000 RDC funding clause retained, $508,000 state grant noted
Summary
The Redevelopment Commission approved Resolution 25-89 to continue a management agreement with the Buskirk‑Chumley Theater management organization through 2027, retaining a previously established annual funding clause from the RDC (up to $74,000) and noting a $508,000 state EPIC grant for HVAC and solar upgrades.
The Redevelopment Commission on July 21 unanimously approved Resolution 25-89, renewing the city’s partnership agreement with the Buskirk‑Chumley Theater management company and retaining language that allows the redevelopment fund to allocate up to $74,000 per year for facility upgrades upon commission approval.
Holly Ward, assistant director for the arts, told commissioners the partnership continues a long-standing arrangement—dating to 2001—by which the RDC considers up to $74,000 annually for upgrades that improve facility operations rather than routine repairs. Ward said any use of those funds would require a proposal and specific approval from the commission.
Jane Coopersmith of the Department of Economic and Sustainable Development noted the city has captured outside funding for the theater’s sustainability upgrades. According to staff, the state EPIC program provided $508,000 toward replacing the HVAC system and adding solar and battery storage; those measures are intended in part to enable the theater to serve as a cooling center on high-heat days. Coopersmith said the EPIC funding obligates the theater to open to the public under specified conditions.
Ward told commissioners the Parks Department continues to provide up to $15,000 annually for maintenance responsibilities tied to its ownership of the facility, while council-level operating support historically provided $55,000 per year; the proposal moves the council operating contribution into Economic & Sustainable Development’s budget for increased transparency and oversight.
Commissioners asked about oversight, the planned scope of upgrades, and reporting; Ward said staff will develop prioritization and bring specific proposals back to the commission for approval. The resolution passed unanimously with no public opposition.
