Metropolis seeks additional funding from Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights trustees tonight will discuss the village's annual funding for Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, which could total more than $300,000 from a variety of sources in fiscal year 2014.
According to budget documents, Metropolis is requesting that its annual subsidy increase slightly to $160,000, in addition to $32,000 for equipment replacement.
The downtown Arlington Heights theater also is asking for use of up to $125,000 of reserves from the Arts, Entertainment and Events fund to upgrade its sound system, renovate the second floor school space, buy a more modern ticketing system and make other technological improvements.
Metropolis initially sought additional funds for a vehicle and an architectural study, but those requests have been dropped.
In fiscal year 2013 the village subsidy for Metropolis was $155,000, along with $40,300 for equipment replacement.
According to budget documents dated Feb. 15, Metropolis estimates it will end fiscal year 2013 with a $385,603 deficit, but through cuts and increased revenue the theater is projecting a balanced budget for fiscal year 2014, which begins May 1.
In October 2011 the village board decided to loan Metropolis $75,000 because the theater was experiencing cash flow problems. During lengthy budget discussion in March 2012 the board voted 5-4 to forgive that loan.
The discussion of Metropolis funding, as well as the budget for the Arlington Heights Memorial Library and the village's Building and Health services departments, will take place tonight at the second in a series of budget meetings. The meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. in the community room on the 3rd floor of village hall, 33 S. Arlington Heights Road.