“This is a fantastic community asset we need to support,” said architect Doug Nelson of the Hunt & Burns-designed building. The Glen Tavern Inn is a “prime example of wooden buildings” that, noted Nelson, if not for a fire sprinkler system, would not have survived an earlier fire.Although Councilman John Procter said he approved the plan, Councilman Dr. Gabino Aguirre questioned theater community use.Vice Mayor Ralph Fernandez said he also had concerns and does not believe the SPTC has the financial resources for additional building improvements. “We have a wonderful treasure that should be used by the whole community,” and such use could extend to free performances for school students and other outreach that could, suggested Fernandez, replace repayment or fines for contract non-compliance.Bobkiewicz noted that one of the improvements planned by SPTC is to restore the caretaker’s quarters, which when occupied would provide building security.During a break for negotations, Bobkiewicz said the SPTC agreed on a schools’ program, would expand its season offerings, would give 100 free tickets each year to area community groups, and provide two annual free master acting class scholarships for youths. Bobkiewicz said the contract addition “accomplishes what Councilmen Dr. Gabino Aguirre” and Fernandez requested.
Council agrees on RDA fire sprinkler installation for Ebell Clubhouse
November 14, 2008
Santa Paula City Council
A deal that’s been in the works for as long as a decade was finalized when the City Council, acting as Redevelopment Agency directors, agreed to underwrite the installation of fire sprinklers in one of the city’s most historic buildings.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesA deal that’s been in the works for as long as a decade was finalized when the City Council, acting as Redevelopment Agency directors, agreed to underwrite the installation of fire sprinklers in one of the city’s most historic buildings. The Ebell Clubhouse, operated by the Santa Paula Theater Center, will have to live up to the terms of the agreement including other building improvements as well as a community service component to pay back the cost of the installation.City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz told the Council at the October 20 meeting that the Craftsman-style Ebell Clubhouse, built in 1917, is “one of the most historic in the community” that must be preserved and protected from fire. Over the years the SPTC has attempted to maintain the building, and has painted the structure located at the corner of 7th and East Main streets.SPTC Board Chairperson Leslie Nichols told the Council the theater center was founded in 1985, and has been producing a “full season of comedy and drama ever since.” She also gave a history of the building and noted that although the theater group has invested in the structure, it is unable to afford the sprinkler system required by city code.Ticket sales and donations fund the volunteer group, which has an annual budget of approximately $80,000 or more each year and no paid staff. The theater draws its audience from residents throughout Southern California who often combine the theater-going experience with visits to area restaurants. Nichols noted funds are also spent locally on theater supplies and production needs.“To provide another perspective, we are not asking for ongoing operation monies, we are simply asking for money to protect one of the three Santa Paula buildings” listed on the National Register of Historic Structures. “Santa Paula Theater Center is a very active, very positive part of Santa Paula,” and Nichols said she hoped the Council would realize its value to culture as well as to the local economy.
