The private model plan for the Overture Center moved forward as Madison's Board of Estimates recommended the adoption of the plan for the Common Council Monday.
The alternative plan would include having the private Overture Development Corporation or 201 State Foundation, the proposed non-profit operator of the center, take ownership of the performing arts center.
Ald. Mark Clear, Dist. 19, said in a memo sent last week he will offer a substitute resolution which would have the city turn down ownership of the center, but would offer a $2 million annual grant. This grant would provide financial assistance and long-term maintenance if a non-profit organization leases the building from the city.
Ald. Jed Sanborn, Dist. 1, said Common Council should have a long-term goal rather than a short-term goal. He said the proposed plan could not accomplish much in helping the Overture succeed for a long period of time.
Clear, who first proposed the private model, said he hadn't envisioned the plan as a short term solution. He said its hard to tell what will be deemed appropriate in several years.
Ald. Mike Verveer, Dist. 4, said he would not be able to support the motion because the proposed plan for the center is taking a step backward.
""I hope we get to a place where I can support a clear future for the Overture Center,"" Verveer said.
Satya Rhodes-Conway also said she did not feel comfortable voting for what was proposed at the meeting. She said her main concern is how the Overture employees will be treated.
""I'm looking for something I can say yes to, but I haven't yet,"" Rhodes-Conway said.
Board members also voted to adopt the purchase of auto dealer Don Miller's 7.76 acres on East Washington Avenue using a land banking fund. Mayor Dave Cieslewicz previously announced the proposal of purchasing the land in order to break it into smaller parcels for redevelopment.
