Three parcels of land were presented to the Kenai City Council last night as the Kenai Performers continued their hunt for a place to call their own.
Sally Cassano with the Performers said Councilors approved the progress of their discussions with City Manager Rick Koch…
Cassano: “Oh we’re very excited, very excited. We weren’t positive, no one else was either, but we’re pleased that we had unanimous tonight. That meant a lot. And to be addressed by Madam Mayor… that was great.”
The Performers were recognized for their “unseen” value and long-term commitment to the community. The non-profit has been incorporated for 45 years, but they’ve been in Kenai much longer.
Phil Morin’s mother was one of the original Performers. He said they’re not wasting any time with their plans…
Morin: “We’re already designing the structure to build a black box theater. The concept of a black box theater is to put on smaller plays, not the big huge productions, because we have that big auditorium. So our ability to produce shows on a regular, consistent, forecast method would be assured.”
Koch proposed three possible parcels of land to donate to the group: their original request of the block on the corner of the Spur Highway and Evergreen St, a parcel set back from the Highway just behind the original space, or a third located on Redoubt Avenue.
The Performers also agreed with three conditions: a development schedule will be established, the land will not be sold for 20 years, if the land is sold then the value of the land at the time of sale will be reimbursed to the City.