Fort Bend ISD and the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation are looking to transfer ownership of the Sugar Land Auditorium. Sugar Land City Council were approached Aug. 2 with the idea of acquiring the historic community building.

The Sugar Land Auditorium serves as a venue for community theater and art programs. FBISD owns and maintains the building while the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation schedules events and rentals.

Both entities approached the city about a transfer of ownership. Lindsay Davis, the city’s cultural arts manager, presented to the council to gauge members’ interest in acquiring the auditorium

“As the city moves in the direction of art and culture, this shift [in ownership] would make sense,” Davis said, citing several city initiatives to enhance art and culture in Sugar Land.

City Manager Allen Bogard said FBISD district personnel expressed that the auditorium would do well under the city control.

“They see this facility fitting more appropriately in the city’s array of services and holdings as opposed to the school district,” Bogard said.

Some council members brought up the need for more logistical information, especially considering that the building lacks restrooms. Auditorium patrons currently use restrooms at the adjacent Lakeview Elementary School.

Council member Amy Mitchell asked whether the building would be donated or if the city would have to buy it. She said she was concerned about the timing of undertaking the acquisition of the auditorium with the Smart Financial Center opening in January.

“The idea is that we would be looking for a donation,” Davis said.

Built in 1918, the auditorium can hold about 400 people, Davis said. It was constructed by Imperial Sugar Company to provide workers and their families with a gathering place and a space for educational opportunities.

Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation President Tim Stubenrouch, said the building needs little maintenance at this time, other than a planned phase of renovations.

“It’s in very good shape with the exception of some paint and other small issues,” Stubenrouch said.

Council members agreed they would like Davis and city personnel to gather more information and come back.

“I’m not sure that the information’s going change my perspective on timing,” Mitchell said. “I don’t want to rush, but getting information can’t hurt anything.”