Aug. 3, 2022 - 7pm - Beso Restaurant
502 S Palm Dr, Novato, CA 94949; T: (415) 883-6700
We are starting meetings to keep volunteers informed and engaged. Join our 1st "Meet & Greet Mixer". Please arrive by 6:30 or 6:45 pm if you plan to order dinner so we do not overwhelm the kitchen crew.
The State Of Affairs
After 30 years, 3 committees, and lots of effort, the Hamilton Theater is left to decay. Our town officials are divided. There is no money. The City has a $1.4 million deficit. The question we have to ask is if the City is acting on our behalf. It seems this indecisiiveness will not get resolved without our voices being heard, and our action to show what we want. Let's talk about this on August 3rd.
Adam McGill, Novato City Manager, Marin IJ article, Jul 9, 2022 ~
“The city is not involved at all. It could turn out to just be housing."..."The building must stay,” he said. “It is a historical building so if we were to sell it to a developer, they can build houses all around it but that building does have to stay. What isn’t true is that does have to be a theater."
Interim Mayor Susan Wernick, email Jul 22, 2022 ~
"It is my understanding that you [Laura van Galen] have had a conversation with our City Manager and he has explained to you the process that California cities are required to follow when disposing of city property. Please refer to the California Department of Housing and Community Development Surplus Land Act Guidelines. At this time there is no plan to move forward with any decision regarding the Hamilton Theater."
The Risk
If the city decides to sell the property, a 2019 state law requires that it first prioritize negotiations with developers proposing housing, school sites, parks or open space before placing it on the open market as surplus property. The state law does not apply if the city decides to lease the theater, like it did for the MOCA site.
Our goal is to lease the site, raise the funds and build an historic place to celebrate music and performing arts, forever.
Come to the meeting and get involved. RSVP