By Gazette staff

STEVENS POINT – The city of Stevens Point is supportive of CREATE Portage County’s plans for the Fox Theater, but officials say that safety issues with the building must be addressed.

On July 22, the city of Stevens Point issued a raze order for the old Fox Theater at 1116 Main St., Stevens Point.

An Aug. 6 press release stated: “The order required the razing and removal of the building based on a determination by the City’s Inspection Division that the building was dangerous, unsafe, and unsanitary for use and occupancy.”

CREATE Portage County has expressed interest to reconstruct, renovate, and save portions of the building, and have started efforts to raise the necessary funds to do so. In their most recent plan for the building, CREATE will have the rear theater area of the building demolished, leaving portions of the façade and the front of the building intact. A new building would be constructed in place of the theater and will join the original façade.

“The city is supportive of CREATE’s efforts and will work with them in trying to complete this project,” the release said. “CREATE’s proposal will continue to improve innovation and entrepreneurialism within the area, and further the community’s economic development efforts. However, while the city is supportive of these efforts, the safety of the public is paramount. CREATE needs to be able to show proof that they have the financial support to fund the project and address the immediate safety concerns. An immediate plan to stabilize the structure and minimize continued deterioration is a necessity for these efforts.

“The intent of the Building Code is to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare in relation to the construction and occupancy of buildings. While the razing of the structure will ensure the intent of the code is met, the City has determined that the health, safety, and general welfare of the public can also be met with an immediate action plan as described above.”