City of Pana buys Roseland Theatre
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PANA — After a closed session where no action was taken, the Pana City Council Monday night came back to regular session and approved a resolution to purchase “certain property.” A press release was then distributed outlining the purchase of the Roseland Theatre.
No price was listed in the press release, but city officials confirmed they will pay $65,000 for the theater and its contents. Asked who had initiated the deal, Econimic Development Director Kirby Casner said the city approached the current owners, the Eisentraut family, who own several theaters in the area and neighboring states. The deal should be completed on or before December 20.
The Council voted unanimously to approve the resolution. Seven aldermen were present in the chamber and First Ward Alderman Tim Eddy participated by phone.
Casner said the theater will be open regular nights showing feature films. Current ticket prices will still be in effect.
The press release states, “As part of this acquisition, the city will embark on a comprehensive repair and restoration projects to preserve the theatre’s rich history and ensure its legacy for future generations.
The city’s restoration plan will include structural repairs, modernization of essential systems, and careful preservation of the theatre’s architectural details. Special attention will be paid to maintaining the integrity of its original design while updating the facility to ensure it meets modern safety standards and accessibility requirements.”
Casner said she does not anticipate staffing changes. The city plans to form a task force to oversee restoration efforts and operation through state and federal grant opportunities for historical municipal landmarks.
“Once complete, the Roseland Theatre will not only serve as a venue for film and live performances, but also as a space for community events, educational programs, and cultural initiatives. The city envisions the threatre as a hub for entertainment, engagement, and education that will inspire both current and future generations.”
The theatre opened in 1940 and was owned by local families including Rosie Tanner and Bill and Selma Horton before being purchased by the Eisentraut family.
In other business, the council heard the results of the city’s audit for fiscal year 2024. Rich Hooper of Lively, Mathias, Hooper, and Noblet, CPA said most of the funds look to be in good shape, but the city will need to pay attention to the water and sewer funds and increase rates to cover the loan payments for major projects.
An ordinance establishing the salary of the Fire Chief was approved for $400 a month, and the fire department compensation was changed to allow for up to 34 volunteer firefighters, all of whom would be paid for calls. This will eliminate the auxiliary positions which were not paid, and allow all those responding to calls to be compensated.
A resolution was passed approving the subdivision plat for Jack Flash Subdivision.
Mayor Nathan Pastor reminded everyone that the first regular November meeting will be held on Tuesday, Nov., 12, due to the Veterans Day Holiday.
A liquor license was approved for Pana Shell with the change of ownership to Harmohinder Singh from Harjinger Singh with a prorated fee of $291.21.
The purchase of a grapple bucket for the Street Department from Martin Equipment was approved for $13,280. The money was in the budget. Also approved was the seeding and treatment of the firearms berm by Mahnke Landscaping for $3,425 with the money coming from the Department of Justice fund.
