Woodland Rushes To Spend Redevelopment Funds

WOODLAND (CBS13) -- Cash-strapped cities are in a sudden spending spree, trying to unload redevelopment dollars while they're still there.

In Woodland, there's a rush is on to spend millions with only days left to do it. It's show time. The city has only 10 days to decide who gets a piece of $5 million redevelopment dollars.

A rundown theatre may get a big piece. It's old, abandoned, and an eyesore. The theatre was the hub of Woodland in the 1930's. Now plans for a transformation may set the stage for performances and dance studios.

"It allows us to grow, and it allows a beautiful building to be renovated," said Angela Baltazar, a Historic Opera House spokesperson.

Plays and concerts currently bring about 100 people to the historic opera house almost every weekend, so they're asking for $2 million in redevelopment funds to grow their number of shows.

"You can see a really thriving downtown when we have shows," said Baltazar.

And closed stores suck the life out of a once-thriving area.

"Less and less people come to downtown because there's really no reason to, and we're looking to change that," said Woodland Mayor Art Pimentel.

That's why the mayor is considering investing $2 million redevelopment dollars in Maria's Cantina. Before this modern Mexican restaurant even opens they may get loans to open a second restaurant in the vacant lot across the street.

There will also be a wine and coffee bar at an old rice mill and a burger joint near the old theater.

"Sometimes you've to turn over the leaf a little bit and be willing to take some risk and provide a new atmosphere," said Mike Paris, CFO of BlackPine Holdings.

All this sounds great to those who are in the running for funds, but what about business owners like Silvina Salcedo who barely makes the bills?

"In four years one year was great. Three of them have been very difficult," said Salcedo.

A low interest loan would allow her to open a banquet room upstairs, but she was told it was too late to apply.

"It can be very frustrating," said Salcedo.

If the city doesn't act now, they'll lose the entire $5 million. It's forcing last-minute action that may be the boost businesses have been desperate for.

On Tuesday the city council will vote on how to spread the money. Other options would be giving it to a couple existing buildings that need renovations. And if they don't use the funds by June 30, they lose it.