Selma City Council approves minor repairs to Striplin Center

Published 4:00 am Thursday, August 24, 2023

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The Selma City Council approved a resolution that affects repairing the Larry D. Striplin Jr. Performing Arts Center this week.

Gospel Tabernacle Pastor John E. Grayson, who leases the theater, is now permitted to do minor work to the facility without heavy equipment for an amount less than $15,000. The Theater was closed last month because of a leaking ceiling.

Randy Lovelady, who did previous work on the Theater, has volunteered to repair the building for free. He saw only minor damage to the building.

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Grayson and Lovelady each sent emails with photos to the council, but Mayor James Perkins Jr. said he never received the emails.

City of Selma Public Buildings Director Stephanie Menifee described the damage to the city council, saying the ceiling behind the screen is about to fall down and there is roof damage. Menifee said Monumental Contracting Services gave a quote for repairs over $100,000. She also talked to Lovelady but did not reveal their discussion.

City Attorney Major Madison said Grayson’s signature will be needed on the resolution.