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PACE seeks city seed funding for Palace Theater redevelopment; council defers decision
Summary
Downtown Economic Development Director Tammy Joyce and PACE proposed converting the Palace Theater into a flexible performing-arts venue and requested $330,000 annually from the City for three years (total $990,000); council deferred the proposal and asked for a feasibility study and broader discussion with all council members present.
Downtown Economic Development Director Tammy Joyce presented plans at the Jan. 25 workshop to redevelop the downtown Palace Theater into a flexible, multigenerational performing‑arts venue with space for live theater, films, comedy and community events.
Members of the PACE committee described a proposed partnership with the city and requested $330,000 per year for three years, a total of $990,000, to support initial operations and capital needs. PACE representatives said they would pursue a feasibility study and a capital campaign led by local volunteers and philanthropic contacts to reach long‑term sustainability.
Council members expressed mixed views about committing taxpayer support for the arts while other capital and infrastructure priorities remain. The council deferred further action pending a feasibility study and full council discussion; Mayor Pro Tempore D. Hunter Thrift moved to push the Palace Theater and two related downtown items to February committee meetings, and Council Member Lisa Shell seconded the motion.
Next steps: PACE and city staff will pursue a feasibility study and return a refined proposal to council committees for consideration.
