Glendale : $6-Million Budget for Alex

The Redevelopment Agency approved a $6-million budget to renovate the Alex Theatre into a performing and cultural arts center without the Fox Lanterman pipe organ.

The vote was 4 to 1, with Mayor Ginger Bremberg against. “I don’t understand why we’re rushing through this project without the due diligence accorded to others,” she said.

The resolutions accept the final report of the Committee for the Arts at the Alex, a 21-member city-appointed task force. The report, released earlier this month, recommended buying the 66-year-old theater at 216 N. Brand Blvd. from Mann Theatres and restoring it without the organ.

The renovation, which could be completed within 18 months after acquisition, was originally estimated to cost $5 million. But at a study session earlier this month, the City Council, which also serves as the Redevelopment Agency, agreed to spend an extra $1 million on designs that may include enlarging the theater lobby and offices, improving two stairways that lead to the mezzanine, and reconfiguring balcony seating.

Glendale bought the Fox Lanterman organ from La Canada Flintridge for $50,000 earlier this year. Glendale officials are studying other uses for the organ.