Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Rochester Civic Theater is being notified that it has 30 days to address a list of issues that city officials contend has put the organization in violation of its long-standing lease of the theater at the Mayo Civic Center complex.

The Rochester City Council voted 6-1 last night to make the notification with the intent to terminate the lease at the conclusion of the theater's current production schedule in mid-May. First Ward Councilmember Patrick Keane cast the lone no vote.

The lease termination notification was originally tied to a recommendation calling on city staff to develop a new collaborative model for the community's utilization of the theater space. Near the end of a lengthy discussion of the issue, the council voted to separate the recommendations and delay action on creating the new operational plan until after the 30-day notice expires.

City staff indicated most of the issues it identified that put RCT in violation of the lease agreement involve the organization's financial troubles and resulting unpaid bills. In an open letter to the City Council and community, the new chair of the Rochester Civic Theater Board disputed the city staff's claims and argued the organization has met the obligations of the lease and is not in default.

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