Plan Commission backs Evergreen Theater’s plan to convert former school into nonprofit theater and community space

The Green Bay Plan Commission voted Nov. 3 to approve a conditional use permit for Evergreen Theater Inc. to use the former Heilig school as a nonprofit community theater and as office and classroom space for nonprofit groups.

Staff said the parcel is in a public/institutional (PI) district and that “other public or semi-public” uses, including a nonprofit theater, fit the zoning classification. The proposal envisions converting gymnasium space into a theater that would seat about 190–200 people and using classrooms for auditions, prop and costume storage, classes and nonprofit offices. Staff recommended approval while noting the site’s parking is legally nonconforming: 74 existing stalls remain, although a new development would be subject to current landscaping and parking standards.

Evergreen representative Judy Patefield, who said she lives nearby at 1840 Adler Way, described Evergreen as a long-standing local nonprofit: “Evergreen’s been in existence for 40 years,” she said, noting the organization’s interest in providing youth programs, storage for sets and costumes, and performance space that local schools no longer provide. Murphy Park Neighborhood Association board member Miles Grasso testified the neighborhood supports the project, and online commenter Alyssa Prophet said artist groups need spaces like this in the city.

Staff estimated a theater using the gymnasium would need roughly 40 parking stalls based on seating capacity; the existing 74 stalls on site mean the lot could accommodate the use initially, but staff said future changes in use or occupancy could trigger a need for additional parking work. Neighbors within a 400-foot notice area were notified; staff reported no calls with objections and positive feedback at a Murphy Park neighborhood meeting.

The commission moved to approve the conditional use permit and classification of uses (nonprofit community theater and office space for community nonprofits). Commissioner Vinsdine made the motion and Vice Chair Jacob Miller seconded. The motion passed; the item will be forwarded to City Council on Nov. 11 for any required Council actions, including acceptance of dedications or code compliance items.

Staff and commissioners emphasized that any uses beyond the approved scope (for example, a full-service restaurant) would require a separate review or amended permit.