Politics & Government

Dome Decision Heads to City Council

The Pleasant Hill City Council will consider an appeal filed by "dome" supporters. Meanwhile, a demolition permit for the 46-year-old theater has already been issued.

Monday was the last day to appeal a decision by the Pleasant Hill Planning Commission that would allow for the demolition of the "dome" theater and the construction of a new sporting goods store in its stead. 

Now, the Pleasant Hill City Council has 45 days to respond to an appeal to save the "dome." The council will likely address the matter in a May meeting, according to Public Information Officer Martin Nelis. But demolition of the theater could technically go ahead in the meantime.

"The proposed demolition of the theater is separate and not directly affected by this appeal," said Nelis in an email to Patch. "The Building Division has already issued the demolition permit for the theater building but at this time we have no information on a schedule for demolition by the property owner."

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The Planning Commission has already approved the controversial project, which has drawn criticism from people who argue that the theater is a local landmark as well as a vital cultural institution.

"Dome" advocates gathered Saturday as part of a final effort to save the theater from demolition, which could take place as early as the end April.

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The CinéArts theater, known as the "dome" for its shape, has been around since 1967. Locals remember watching movies there that would become classics in the years ahead, including "Star Wars", "Jurassic Park", "E.T." and more. 

Last Thursday, the city's Architectural Review Commission approved plans to demolish the CinéArts theater as part of the redevelopment of the Crossroads Shopping Center, with three members of the commission agreeing to the developer's project proposal. The fourth — Vice Chair John Hart — dissented. 

"I hate to see the 'dome' go, but I understand the developer's desire here," said Hart, who added that he has been watching movies at the theater since 1972. "I'm going to miss it."

"I've never liked the 'dome'," said Commissioner George Corrigan. "To me, it was always a mid-60s marketing gimmick. It was fun while we had it, but it's not something we should preserve."

More information about "save the dome" efforts is available on the group's Facebook page.

What do you hope will happen to the "dome" theater? Share your thoughts in the comments below.


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