Mystery Group Wants to Manage Red Clay Theatre

Duluth Economic Development Manager Chris McGahee informed the City Council during its work session Monday (June 27) that another management group has expressed interest in taking over the operation of Duluth’s Red Clay Theatre, but needs “one more week of confidentiality” to firm up its proposal.

McGahee said he could not reveal any details, other than it was “legitimate.” The group plans to come to the council with its proposal before the next meeting on July 11, he said.

The city council has set aside 60 minutes of its July 25 work session to continue a discussion on the future and direction of Red Clay. The downtown theatre currently is operated by city staff as a rental facility. City council members differ on whether the theatre should be a cultural arts facility, a nightclub/music venue, retail space or a combination. Also at issue are the cost of a proposed addition to the theatre and operating expenses.

The theatre has been the subject of an ongoing debate by the council. “It pretty obvious that we’re not in agreement with what we want,” said Councilman Marsha Bomar.

In the meantime, the Duluth Downtown Development Authority has selected an architect for the theatre addition. It replaces the end of the theatre building that had to be demolished because of rain and flood damage. The proposed 2,200-square-foot addition includes pre-function/intermission space, a box office, administrative offices and restrooms. It could also be used for retail space. The DDA has about $460,000 to pay for construction of the addition to the theatre.

Councilman Billy Jones said he would like for someone to purchase the theatre and put it back on the tax rolls or for it to become self-sustaining. Jones was the originator of a suggestion that the theatre be turned into a music venue similar to 37 Main in Buford.

“We need to decide what we want there before we say ‘yes’ or ‘no,’” said Bomar. Councilman Doug Mundrick said he would like to hear the latest group’s proposal before the July 25 work session.

Bomar also said that four local drama professionals who had presented a proposal to the council in May then withdrew it might be interested in responding to a future RFP (request for proposal) to manage the theatre. Timing and practicality were factors in their decision, she said. They needed to be scheduling summer drama activities and booking fall productions and had to move on with their endeavors, Bomar said. The group cited the city’s uncertainty about the theatre’s future in their decision to withdraw their proposal.

Duluth Vision 2030 Reviewed

Mayor Nancy Harris led a review of a Duluth Vision 2030 document developed by city staff and the council. They envision a city that is an attractive destination and a quality community with a world class government and a sustainable economic environment. Harris urged city department heads to review current work plans, adjust them to focus on the vision, and monitor their progress. The document includes a SWOT analysis listing the city’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

Hiring Committee Selected

The council selected a committee and agreed on a timeline for hiring a new city manager to replace City Administrator Phil McLemore, who plans to retire at the end of the year. McLemore will continue to work in January, February, and March of next year at reduced hours to transition the new city manager. McLemore has worked for the city for 15 years, 13 as city administrator.

Committee members include Ed Johnson, the city’s human resources director; City Clerk Teresa Lynn, Police Chief Randy Belcher; and City Council Members Doug Mundrick and Marsha Bomar. The city plans to start advertising the position in mid-July.

The council will have to amend the city’s charter to change the name of the new position to city manager to more accurately reflect current duties that include overseeing the police department.

Operation One Voice Activities

Duluth Police Lt. Bill Stevens told the council about Operation One Voice 9/11 Remembrance events to mark the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States.

Activities planned in Duluth and at Lake Lanier Islands Resorts Sept. 9-11 include a golf tournament, a book signing and Casino Night, a wounded warrior ride, a country music concert and a memorial service. The events raise funds to support the immediate needs of children and families of wounded and fallen military. For more information, visit www.OperationOneVoice.org.

Catering/Alcoholic Beverage Procedure

The council went over the draft of a catering and alcoholic beverage operating procedure that provides guidelines for contracting with vendors at city-sponsored events. City staff would make the selections based on criteria, event size and needs. Providers would be rotated if possible.