Grand that parks re-eyeing theater plan

The Wheaton Grand Theater might be renovated for a cost of $19.3 million by Wheaton Park District taxpayers. Part of this proposal includes a backup agreement by two other taxing bodies. The city of Wheaton and the Downtown Business Association are being asked to guarantee $250,000 each in theater losses, if needed.

That's $500,000 in potential tax dollars per year covered by Wheaton taxpayers. Are private investors lining up for this opportunity? Not yet - instead, three different taxing authorities would have to "invest" public money. The Wheaton Park District makes the original investment, and the city of Wheaton and a special taxing district being "on the hook" for any operating shortfalls.

Promoters expect 288 performances will be held each year and that 85 percent of the seats will be filled. To help fill the theater, 38 percent of the seats will be free. Let's see. Because I live in Wheaton and do business in downtown Wheaton, I have three different opportunities to pay taxes for this proposal. Not bad considering I can score some of those free tickets.

It's grand that the park district is restudying its proposal.

Gary Kent

Wheaton