Shroud of secrecy hangs over Parton, Roanoke Rapids talks

While details are scant, and the reasons were not being shared with the public, it is apparent that all is not well at the Randy Parton Theatre.

Less than six months after its opening, Roanoke Rapids Mayor Drewery N. Beale confirmed that the council met in a closed session last week to discuss renegotiating the contract for the management of the facility. 

“The city is attempting to negotiate a revised contract with Randy Parton concerning the management of the Randy Parton Theatre,” Beale read from a prepared statement following a Roanoke Rapids city county closed session. Nov. 14. “The negotiations are continuing, and when the contract is signed, it will be discussed at that time.

“It would not be appropriate to discuss the contract while it is being negotiated,” Beale concluded, adding that he would comment no further.

City Councilman Reggie Baird and City Manager Phyllis Lee also refused comment after Beale’s statement.

Local businessman Jim Garrett commented to reporters, voicing the concerns of citizens of Roanoke Rapids.

“I think all the residents of Roanoke Rapids should be concerned,” Garrett remarked. “I don’t see how it could not affect them.”

While the mayor has stuck to his assertions the negotiations should remain private, his opinion is not shared by all members of the council.

According to published reports, Councilman Jon Baker said the entire process should be open to the public.

“The taxpayers deserve to know what decisions are being made and the reasoning behind those decisions,” he is quoted as saying.

Baird is also quoted in published reports as saying he agrees the information should be made public, but because attorneys are involved there is little choice but to do all the talking behind closed doors.