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Commission backs Playhouse lease referral, cites downtown anchor value
Summary
The commission recommended approval of an 8-24 referral to lease the Playhouse Theater (93 Elm Street) to an experienced movie-theater operator, saying the proposal aligns with the POCD objective to preserve cultural amenities and downtown anchors.
The Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 27 recommended that town council approve a municipal lease for the Playhouse Theater, 93 Elm Street, to a proposed theater operator.
Public works Director Tiger Mann and staff said the RFP required an operator with theater experience and that the town is leasing the whole building (including pub and event space) to one operator to optimize use. Commissioners sought clarity about lease terms and whether the operator could sublease the upstairs event space; staff said the RFP prioritized an operator who would run the theater, the RFP was structured around that objective, and that any change of use would trigger a return to the commission under zoning rules.
Commissioners expressed support for keeping the Playhouse active as a downtown anchor. One commissioner noted prior history in which an operator left the theater due to economics; planners and the public works director said the current RFP emphasizes an operator capable of consistent, full-week operation. The commission voted to recommend approval and will forward its report to town council.
