As you may be aware, the recent Austin Quality of Life Bonds in 2006 helped secure $12.5M to double the size of the Zachary Scott Theatre in Austin to 400 seats. The Zachary Scott Theatre is currently the playground of the Austin Film Society and other cultural arts groups.
According to a citizen at the recent Parks and Recreation Board meeting, Zachary Scott Theatre developers were given the right to add 100 more seats to the theatre by legislative approval. While this is normally not a problem, the citizen raised valid concerns.
ISSUES WITH RECENT ZACHARY SCOTT THEATRE CHANGES
- Citizens were not made aware of the request to add 100 more seats and did not get to vote on it. We funded the project at 400 seats, so who is paying for the increased cost?
- According to the speaker at the meeting, the plan calls for 100 additional seats, but does not include room for additional parking. This is an issue because it could mean developers will take additional parkland to provide the parking spaces.
- A new lease amendment proposal would allow a 24-hour restaurant. The Parks and Recreation board initially thought the amendment allowed developers a chance to evaluate having the restaurant, but it was actually an APPROVAL to move forward. After the citizen pointed this out, the board did not take further action until they can look into the matter.
To stay on top of changes a the city level, I suggest attending city commission meetings, which are usually recorded and televised later on Channel 6 webcasts.
I've already asked for a transcript of the meeting and will follow up for more details on the proposed restaurant lease amendment.
Link: City of Austin - Park and Recreation Board Agenda.
Read more about the Proposition 4 Bonds.
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