Plaza Theatre Foundation president, city reject claims in legal battle over entryway
“The foundation has no control or influence in the city’s negotiations with the developer regarding the adjacent property next to the Plaza Theater.” — J.R. Roberts
The president of The Plaza Theatre Foundation and city officials on Monday strongly refuted allegations made by Grit Development in an escalating dispute over the theater’s entryway in Downtown Palm Springs.
J.R. Roberts, the foundation’s president, denied claims that his organization possesses any decision-making authority in the city’s negotiations regarding the adjacent property.
Local reporting and journalism you can count on.
Subscribe to The Palm Springs Post
“The claims made by John Wessman, Michael Braun, and Grit Development are entirely unfounded,” Roberts said in a statement. “The foundation has no control or influence in the city’s negotiations with the developer regarding the adjacent property next to the Plaza Theater.”
Roberts suggested the allegations might be a negotiation tactic, noting they emerged after the restaurant tenant, Kalura Trattoria, had already reached a settlement with the city.
He emphasized that the foundation’s volunteers have “no personal stakes in this matter” and are focused solely on “raising funds and overseeing the restoration of this important community asset.”
The city, through Communications Director Amy Blaisdell, reinforced Roberts’ position.
“The City of Palm Springs has not and cannot legally give authority over the decision-making power regarding any real estate or legal proceedings to anyone,” a statement released by Blaisdell said. “Any claim to the contrary is false.”
The statements directly counter one of Grit Development’s key objections in their legal response to the city’s eminent domain proceedings.
In court documents, Grit alleges that the city improperly delegated decision-making authority to the private foundation led by Roberts, a former City Council member. It also took issue with what it said was an eminent domain claim that would benefit a private operator — The Oak View Group, which is managing the theater — instead of the public, which Grit claims violates California law
Blaisdell indicated that negotiations continue despite the legal proceedings.
“The City Attorney is continuing to negotiate with Grit Development — and we hope that a resolution will be forthcoming,” she said.
The dispute centers on an outdoor patio space used by Kalura Trattoria, which the city plans to incorporate into the theater restoration for improved access, events, and VIP reception areas.
The city has already settled with the restaurant for $500,000 plus promises of alternative dining space, but an agreement with property owner Grit Development remains elusive.
The next court hearing is scheduled for May, and the theater’s planned December reopening could face delays depending on the outcome of the legal proceedings.
Author
Related Articles
City board debates how far a 1930s Palm Springs home can change for modern family
Members of the city’s Historic Site Preservation Board differed over whether additions to the historic Hal Forrest Residence enhance its preservation or simply adapt it to a family’s needs.
Seven Lakes Golf & Country Club takes step toward becoming Palm Springs’ largest historic district
The city’s Historic Site Preservation Board approved the designation for the 120-acre complex, which counts Dwight D. Eisenhower among its notable golfers.
Palm Springs officials ask to revisit Flock camera policy amid public pushback
After years of expanding the city’s surveillance network, the Palm Springs City Council is asking police for a public update on how the technology is being used and what safeguards are in place.