City Council voted unanimously Thursday to lease a city-owned building at 15th Street and West Avenue to the the nonprofit Greater Ocean City Theatre Company (OCTC) for $1 a year.
“The property is a vacant building which has not been occupied by city personnel in approximately four years” and “is not currently needed for municipal use,” according to the proposed ordinance. It had been used most recently for the storage of records and city equipment.
The lease will allow OCTC to consolidate “four different locations on the island under one roof and to function with a little more financial stability,” according to Artistic Director Michael Hartman.
The company would create a performing arts facility used to run its youth theater camps for the city, to stage rehearsals for its full calendar of productions throughout the year, and to create a base for costuming and props. It would not be a location for live performances — which would continue to be staged at the Ocean City Music Pier, Performing Arts Center at Ocean City High School or other locations on the island.
In approving the first reading of the ordinance, Council members praised not only the concept of supporting the arts but the theater company itself.
“The arts will drive a city in the right direction,” Councilman Keith Hartzell said. “This is the right thing to do because of the level of professionalism of this theater company.”
Mayor Jay Gillian said Hartman has been a positive influence on countless kids in the community.
“I think he saves lives,” Gillian said. “He takes their talents and takes them to the next level.”
“It’s extraordinarily well-run,” Councilman Mike DeVlieger said of the OCTC.
Council approved the first reading of an ordinance that authorizes a five-year lease for $1 a year in a 6-0 vote. Council President Tony Wilson was not present.
The proposed lease (see Agenda Packet for the full text of the lease and ordinance) had called for OCTC to accept the property “as is” and to pay for utilities and maintenance, but City Solicitor Dorothy McCrosson said a revised lease would require the city to maintain the exterior and roof of the building.
Business Administrator Mike Dattilo said the property was remediated for minor flood damage after Superstorm Sandy and would be tested again for mold before the lease is executed.
OCTC is funded entirely through ticket sales and donations. The company produces musicals with professional talent, and it runs a junior company that features area youth. OCTC performers are a staple of parades and events throughout the year, and OCTC runs educational programs in the local schools.
A second reading of the ordinance is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 18.
