2002-21 DESIGNATING A LANDMARK LINCOLN SQUARE THEATRE AND INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS - 141-145 NORTH MAIN STREET

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Historical and Architectural Sites Commission March 13, 2002 Page Two Decatur rather than Champaign. Mr. Wilmot stated that the Lincoln is a great historic theater and landmark status is a way to recognize the structure and protect it from someone who may not care about it. Mr. Little stated that Mr. Wilmot had done an excellent job on his application. Ms. Miller stated that as a local landmark nothing can be done to change the exterior of the building in any way without an approved Certificate of Appropriateness or Certificate of Demolition. Landmarks are covered Under Chapter 31 of the City Code. Ms. Carla Brinkoetter, President of the Lincoln Square Theatre,was present and spoke in favor of the application. Ms. Brinkoetter stated that she had been involved with the Lincoln since 1995 at which time Mr. Bill Eichenauer had referenced the tearing down of Stephen Decatur High School and the Carnegie Library and stated that he didn't want to see the Lincoln torn down. Ms. Brinkoetter stated that she knew the Historical and Architectural Sites Commission was passionate about preserving structures and she felt it was significant for the City of Decatur to say that this building will stay. The building is structurally sound and very much worth saving. Ms. Brinkoetter stated that the Y and churches have programs at the Lincoln and it will be good for the children to return to see the theater in its glory. Mrs. Cross asked if there were any immediate renovation plans. Ms. Brinkoetter sta�d that the biggest goal is to secure the outside of the building. A grant in the amount of$75,000 was received from the State to replace the roofs on the Lincoln Square Theatre and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Hall. Two thirds of the tuck pointing is done. Ms. Brinkoetter stated that the two buildings might be connected so there might not be a need for further tuck pointing. A gentleman was here that had done the theaters in Rockford and Champaign and said that he had not seen a theater quite like the Lincoln with its mezzanine. Ms. Brinkoetter stated that the economic impact of restoring the theater restores the downtown. The theater can host an audience larger than that of the Civic Center and smaller than that of Kirkland. The Executive Director of the Lincoln notifies all restaurants downtown when there are events at the Lincoln and the restaurants have seen an increase in business on those nights. There were no objectors present. Ms. Miller stated that the designation process is established by Chapter 31. After the Public Hearing, the Historical and Architectural Sites Commission (HASC)will make a decision on landmark status based on the criteria. HASC will make a recommendation to City Council and City Council makes the final decision. Ms. Miller stated that the application will be on the HASC agenda for Wednesday, March 20 at 4:00 P.M. Once a landmark is designated any changes would need a Certificate of Appropriateness which requires sharing of plans regarding the building's exterior with HASC. The commission is very helpful in working with owners and looks forward to welcoming the Lincoln as a local landmark. Mr. Little commended Mr. Wilmot for his work and time on the landmark application. Mrs. Glidewell stated that the Lincoln Square Theatre Board and staff should also be commended for