Arbitration is best arts center choice

5/27/07
After months upon months of talks, the fate of the Black Rock Arts Center remains up in the air. City officials promised continually that a solution was in the offing, but the two sides have yet to come together. At this point, arbitration is the best option for both sides.
The city owns the center’s Fairfield Avenue location, and rents it out for $1 a year. Mayor John M. Fabrizi and other city officials, though, thought they could attract a more profitable tenant to the site, and explored ways to move the arts center or otherwise satisfy all parties. Despite all the talks, they haven’t gotten anywhere.
Arts center officials say the city’s demands are unreasonable, and are asking for arbitration. It’s the right idea; more talks are pointless. Both sides have made offers and a few concessions, and it appears that no more time should be spent on the endeavor.
Arts center backers say the city should offer a rent deal similar to the one offered the Downtown Cabaret Theater, for $300 per month. The city is also negotiating space in City Hall Annex for another arts program; it’s not unreasonable for the Black Rock group to seek similar terms.
The city’s counteroffer was clearly unacceptable. It wanted the arts group to relocate to the fifth floor of the Eisenhower Center on Golden Hill Street, but that was never going to work in terms of space or facilities. It was an offer in good faith, but more should be expected from the city.
BRAC officials say the group’s last lease with the city requires the two parties to enter into arbitration if a new agreement cannot be reached. All indications are that the group is ready to invoke that clause, even if it means going to court.
A vibrant and expansive arts community is necessary for any growing city. Bridgeport must find a home for the Black Rock Arts Center, and encourage artists of all kinds to make the city their home.
For Bridgeport to reach its full potential, it must be a diverse, dynamic community, and the arts must take a priority. Although it could surely earn much more in rent from another restaurant or bar, officials must not overlook what it is that gives the city so much promise.