Darrell Jones, owner of Melva Dean Theatre, 3201 Clio Ave., bought the Temple Baptist Church a year ago and is now ready to open the sanctuary as a theatre. The building has seating for 1,300 and parking is ample with 640 spaces.
Mr. Jones told the City Beer Board that a certified security company has been hired. Mr. Jones operates a variety of businesses in Chattanooga including some that already have a beer license, so he is aware of the requirements of the permit. He said he runs a motel, a RV park, some apartments, a construction business and two gas stations.
The beer permit was issued conditionally for Melva Dean Theatre waiting for the zoning official to do precise measurements to make sure the building is a sufficient distance from an operational church that is located next door. The law says that any door that is regularly used for ingress and egress, which includes a fire exit, must be 500 feet from the door of a school or church. If that measurement is not met a license will not be given, however, Mr. Jones will be able to move the fire exit door so that it is an approved distance.
The first concert held there will be Friday night.