Panel Deadlocks on Pact to Run the Greek Theatre
The Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Commission deadlocked Tuesday on a vote to determine whether the Nederlander family or the House of Blues should get the multimillion-dollar contract to run the Greek Theatre.
The commission will reconsider the matter at a meeting next month.
Ellen Oppenheim, general manager of the Department of Recreation and Parks, urged the four commissioners to resolve their stalemate. Under the new City Charter, the matter will not move on to the City Council for consideration until three commissioners agree on the contract.
A seven-member review panel recommended last month that the city award the 10-year deal to the House of Blues, saying it has offered to pay the city $23.5 million in rent over 10 years. The Nederlanders--who have held the contract for more than 25 years--offered $18.5 million.
Commissioners Leroy Chase and Maria Elena Durazo voted against House of Blues, saying they have concerns about the company’s financial stability. But Lisa Specht and Robert W. Nizich voted for House of Blues, saying they were comfortable following the recommendation. Commission President Steve Soboroff recused himself.
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