Council extends moratorium on private rentals at Dowd Center Theater through June 20, 2025

The Monroe City Council on Dec. 10, 2024 approved an extension of the moratorium on private rentals at the Dowd Center Theater, setting the new expiration for June 20, 2025.

Pete Havanek, presenting the item, told the council the city halted private rentals earlier in the year “so we could get some things squared away at the theater.” Havanek said a mayoral committee is developing recommendations on whether and under what terms bridal or other private rentals should be allowed, how many rentals the theater can accommodate, and contract terms. He told council the committee expects to deliver recommendations well before the six-month extension expires.

Council discussion noted the committee has enacted an age-restriction policy, and Havanek reported staff have been checking IDs and “we have not had an issue.” A councilmember said recent committee meetings, consultant participation and staff work have been “very productive” and that the lack of private rentals has not materially harmed the theater’s programming because the city has increased its own offerings.

A councilmember moved to extend the moratorium on private rentals at the Dowd Center Theater until June 20, 2025; the motion was seconded and passed by a voice/hand vote. The transcript records the motion and that those in favor signaled by raising their hands; no roll-call tally was recorded in the meeting minutes.

Why it matters: the extension preserves time for staff and the mayoral committee to develop clear policy and contract language before private events resume. Staff said they have not yet drafted final rental contracts, and that contract language will follow council direction about whether private rentals will be permitted and under what conditions.

Staff indicated programming at the theater has been active during the moratorium, and noted custodial and operational duties previously performed by external rental contractors will need clarification as part of any future contract changes.