Pittsfield councilors take no action on theater repairs

PITTSFIELD – Town councilors tabled action Tuesday night on an emergency appropriation to stabilize the roof of the Pittsfield Community Theater.

Although there were four councilors – enough to vote and conduct regular business -it takes five councilors to enact an emergency ordinance, which is what would have financed the repairs.

Councilors Michael Gray and Louise Baker were not in attendance.

Because of compromised steel roof beams, inadequate trusses and years of water damage, the theater was closed two weeks ago after a report from the James W. Sewall Co. determined it was unsafe.

Town Manager Kathryn Ruth said several engineers from Sewall spent hours at the theater on Monday and are prepared to offer several options for repair.

Also Tuesday, councilors continued their review of the $2,874,006 proposed 2009 municipal budget. Specific departments discussed included recreation, library, theater, airport, and community service agencies.

The council also held an executive session to conduct its annual evaluation of the town manager.

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