Pony up own money for Wheaton theater

The last thing the city of Wheaton should do is own and operate a theater. Betting that most residents would not pay attention, the Wheaton City Council hit the trifecta for tax increases this year, raising the property tax, sales tax and utility tax in order to meet its obligations.

Even with these tax increases, they still cannot fully fund the road program, library or other infrastructure improvements. Unfortunately, some council members and community members want to add the burden of owning and operating a theater.

The latest idea is a "land swap" deal described as a "no cost option" to the city. This option does not come at "no cost" as some claim. The city spent hundreds of thousands of dollars seizing private property by condemnation that would most likely be swapped. Plus, we would own the theater property, and the taxpayers would be on the hook for all structural repairs, possible site contamination, or any other problem that could arise with the property.

But, I agree that the theater project has been studied enough. So, I invite all interested parties desiring this project and believing in its profitability to unite, use their own money to purchase the theater at a foreclosure price, restore it and open it up as a private venue. Their answer - yes or no - will tell us more about the profitability than any consultant's report.

Jeanne Ives

Wheaton