Tools

Owner Of Ogdensburg Cinemas Seeks $100K Loan

Story Published: Feb 11, 2013 at 5:22 PM EDT

Story Updated: Feb 11, 2013 at 7:25 PM EDT

It has been months since the marquee was lit up and the latest movie shown on the big screen at the Ogdensburg Twin Cinemas.

But owner Gil Jones says he wants to reopen the theater with new modern equipment, if he can get the city to help.
 
"With the new equipment, I think we can bring people downtown and not only help the theater, but the other businesses that are in the city," said Jones.
 
Jones has asked the city's Growth Fund for a $100,000 loan to buy a new digital projection system with 3-dimensional capabilities for the movie theater.
 
Jones closed the cinemas last July in a dispute that was later resolved with the city over permits for a waterfront concession stand at the former Ramada Inn hotel and marina, which he also owns.

Since then, Jones says he has invested thousands of dollars in replacing the heating and ventilation system and other renovations at the cinema.
 
Jones says reopening the cinema not only would provide 8 to 10 full and part-time jobs, it would also give city youths something to do in their spare time.

City officials say the loan application is currently being reviewed before any dollar commitment is made.
 
"There are a number of criteria that all loan applications have to meet," said Mayor Bill Nelson.
 
Jones says if the loan comes through, he hopes to have the cinema reopened by May or early summer.

If not, he may convert the building into office space.
Friday, May 24, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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