A proposal to privatize operations at Mielke Park and eventually turn the arts center and park land over to a private company won’t happen.
In addition to some members of the Mielke family opposing the plan, officials have discovered a line in state law that most likely prohibits them from selling or giving away the donated land.
Shawano County Board Chairman Tom Kautza said a phone conversation with some members of the family indicated they were in favor of someone using the theater and park more.
“But, they’re 100% deadset against it ever becoming used for a private, profitable venture,” he told members of the executive committee April 9.
He said he would have corporation counsel review state law that indicates the land cannot be turned over to a private company.
“If I’m reading it right, it says any property that was donated for a specific use, we’re stuck with it,” Kautza said. “We can’t sell it, give it away; it’s there permanently. That would put an end to the whole discussion right there.”
In March, Kelli Penfold and Lori Mathwich established Mission 1st Event Management LLC with plans to reform the Mielke Arts Center into a private venue for local groups and individuals.
Mission 1st Event Management proposed a two-year lease of the site, during which time it would assume all responsibilities and upkeep costs of the arts center and park.
All profits earned during those two years would be reinvested back into the property and used for maintenance and improvements.
Upon successful completion of these two years, Mission 1st Event Management would obtain complete control over the property.
Kautza said Penfold reached out to him to see if there is any chance something could still be worked out with the site, possibly with a lease of some form or manner.
Two days later, at the public property committee meeting, supervisors were reminded that the current lease of the art center with the Shawano County Arts Council expires Aug. 31. If the county intends not to renew the lease, notice must be given by May 30.
“We will put this on hold for another month,” committee Chairman Rick Giese said. “We probably should talk to the arts council … see if they want any changes to the lease.”
“See what they think, if they’ve got any interest in this at all,” Kautza added about sharing operations with Mission 1st Event Management.
The current lease, a five-year agreement, states that for $1, the arts council leases the Mielke Arts Center, the adjacent storage facility, walkways and the non-exclusive use of the parking lot. It does not include the greater Mielke Park area, which must remain open for free use by the public at all times.
kpasson@newmedia-wi.com
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