Conservatory pitches City Hall theater lease; committee asks staff to explore formal RFP and PPP options

Representatives of the Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts urged the committee to pursue a public‑private lease of the City Hall theater, proposing that a long‑term, low‑cost lease would enable renovations and programming that could keep performances and cultural dollars in Norwalk.

Danny Loftess George, president of the conservatory, described the venue’s underuse and said a partnership could transform City Hall into a state‑of‑the‑art performing arts venue while preserving city access. Lynn Colatrella cited a Stamford example where a similar lease arrangement revitalized community theaters and educational programming.

Committee members said the idea merits a formal process. Staff recommended an RFP/lease model (a concession or favorable nonprofit lease) rather than a joint venture with shared capital, and noted precedents such as Lockwood Matthews Mansion governance and concession operations at other city properties. Several members asked staff to draft an RFP or qualifications solicitation and to meet with the mayor and stakeholders about terms and parking and scheduling impacts.

No vote was required; the committee asked staff to return with a proposed process and draft solicitation language for future committee consideration.