City council has been hearing from you on whether or not it will consider selling or leasing 48 Water Street as part of the proposed redevelopment of the Tom Patterson Theatre.
Council heard from a number of residents on both sides of the project, speaking on the impact a new theatre could have, how it may displace community groups, organizations and clubs, the project’s timeline and its impact on the community.
Mayor Dan Mathieson says despite many members of the public pointing out the decision could have multi-generational impacts; council makes those kinds of decisions all the time.
Council and the public have expressed some degree of frustration when it comes to the timeline, which relies on the development breaking ground by the end of March to secure millions in government funding.
Mathieson says there’s still a great deal for the city and the festival to work through.
Those who spoke included seniors, members of some of the groups and clubs which may be moved due to the decision, supporters and employees of the festival and residents looking for clarification on the decision making process.
City council will meet on Wednesday 6:00pm to discuss its final decision for the future of the property.
