We used to call these art houses. Today comes word that The Varsity in downtown Chapel Hill will close. Simply not enough customers. The story is interesting for two reasons. First, it’s a good example of changing culture and tastes. And second, it hints at an alarming school of thought that is pervasive in left-leaning towns like Chapel Hill. In commenting on the theater’s demise, Mayor Kevin Foy laments that government doesn’t have more control over private businesses in downtown. From the N&O (emphasis is mine):
Kevin Foy, mayor of Chapel Hill and an advocate for throwing more tax dollars to the upkeep and marketing of downtown, was saddened by the news.
“The Varsity is one of the iconic establishments downtown,” Foy said. “When people think of Franklin Street, they think of the marquee.”
Foy would like to see a theater in the space for many generations to come, but the town has little control over what goes into the privately owned buildings that dot the main drag. Stone does not own the building.
“Part of what’s difficult about downtown is buildings are all privately owned, and the negotiations that go on are private, and we don’t always know why things are happening the way they are,” Foy said. “The Varsity is a great theater, a great place to see films. But just like a lot of downtown properties, it could use some sprucing up.”
So privately owned buildings make things “difficult” for Chapel Hill officials? Watch out business owners.
