Does anyone know how the votes fell?
Tom Taylor
Sheridan Neighborhood
The vote was 4 to 2. However, you have to understand that the two votes weren't to deny the demolition permit. The substitute amendment called for the vote to be delayed until mid-December in order to "hope" to have the State Preservation report and to have a report from the Planning Department. However, it was pointed out with the backup in the Planning Department to do preservation reports it was very doubtful it would be completed by mid-December. At that point it appeared the delay to mid-December did not make much sense. The two who wanted the delay were Mead and Ostrow. Listening to the debate lead me to believe that their arguments were not particularly persuasuve.
The testimony provided by the Guthrie was very organized and very compelling. Mr. Rapson, of course, was very concerned about his work being demolished, which is very understandable. In the end, however, it was quite apparent that the best thing for all sides was to grant the permit.
For those of you who have a great love for the Guthrie, it would seem the plans for the new theatre does incorporate the stage and many things which I have heard that you admire.
Since the Walker actually owns the building in which the Guthrie is currently housed, I don't feel the Guthrie had much choice other than to seek another location.
Karen Collier
Linden Hills
