The Stuart Town Council selected One Family Productions, a nonprofit agency, to operate the Star Theatre. The group will pay rent of $300 per month for the first year, with an increase to $500 per month in the second year.
Mayor Ray Weiland explained at the November 15 meeting that the council hopes to eventually get the rent to $1,500 per month, “but we don’t want to do that too quickly. We’re going to slowly step up to that.”
Town Manager Bryce Simmons said the rent amount would all be negotiable per the lease that was put together with the council.
“The first year we do the $300, the second year we do the $500, and renegotiate after two years on the lease. Then either renegotiate every two years or do a three-year. We’ll kind of make that determination when that time comes,” Weiland said, noting that he believes the rent is reasonable to help One Family get on its feet and get projects together at the theatre.
Weiland added the theatre will be a great thing for the town.
One Family Productions is a 501 c3 charitable organization with the mission of promoting and supporting community enrichment and growth. It specializes in creating impactful partnerships and events that are accessible, innovative, and engaging.
In other matters, the council:
*Approved the meeting minutes as presented.
*Approved giving $250 to sponsor WHEO streaming the annual Christmas parade.
*Heard updates on public works projects.
*Discussed revising the inoperable vehicle ordinance.
*Discussed the draft copy of the proposed noise ordinance.
*Approved giving town employees Friday, November 24, the day after Thanksgiving, off as a paid holiday.
*Approved giving town employees $200 as a Christmas bonus.
*Paid the bills.
