SIMI VALLEY : City Wants to Buy Landmark Church
The Simi Valley City Council has decided to try to purchase a landmark church for use as a performing arts center.
The council voted 5 to 0 Monday to direct its staff to negotiate a purchase price with the owner of the vacant building, constructed in 1924, and to determine what it would cost to renovate it.
The building has been designated a Ventura County historical landmark.
Assistant City Manager Jay Corey said owner Bob Mitchell has indicated that he might be willing to sell the building in the 3000 block of Los Angeles Avenue for $850,000. City officials estimate that it would cost another $2 million to $2.5 million to renovate the structure and convert it into a 250- to 350-seat theater, Corey said.
Mitchell, who could not be reached for comment, has been trying to sell the building for four years.
Corey said he would meet with Mitchell this week to discuss a price.
“I think it can be and probably will be an outstanding” theater, Councilman Bill Davis said.
Patricia Havens, a member of the Simi Valley Historical Society, said she was pleased that the city is interested in purchasing the structure because it would ensure its preservation.
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