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The Larry D. Striplin Jr. Performing Arts Center  highlighted the Selma City Council Work Session on Thursday.

Council members present were: President Billy Young, council members Jannie Thomas, Lesia James, Christie Thomas, Atkin Jemison, Sam Randolph and Troy Harvill.

During the Citizens’ Request portion of the Work Session, Dr. CC Grayson spoke on behalf of her husband of 41 years, Gospel Tabernacle Pastor John Grayson. She said that Pastor Grayson and Randy Lovelady each sent emails with photos to the city council and Mayor James Perkins Jr. about the theater’s roof damage. The theater has been closed for a month by the city because of it. Grayson, who has leased the theater since 2015, was out of town.

“We are depriving children and people of watching movies.,” CC Grayson said.

Lovelady, who originally worked on the theater, said it was only minor roof damage and he’d do the work for free. He said roof is in good condition.

City Attorney Major Madison said that he and Public Building Director Stephanie Menifee met with Grayson last week. Menifee gave Grayson and Lovelady permission to look at the roof.

Young said that Perkins, Menifee, Building Inspector Zeb Lee, Public Works Director Henry Hicks must be on board for Lovelady to repair the theater. He added that the City of Selma, not Grayson, is responsible for repairs of the theater.