Up for debate tonight at City Council is an investment in new foam seats for Belk Theater. The Blumenthal Performing Arts is seeking $800,000 to replace the "outdated and noisy" spring seats.
"You're sitting in the spring seat during a show and it's really embarrassing," President Tom Gabbard told WSOCTV.
Gabbard says the request would have come sooner, but the economic downturn tabled the issue until this year.
This won't be the first time taxpayers have been asked to foot the bill for butt-related updates at the BPAC. Last year, Council approved an $844,100 project to renovate the ladies restroom on the Orchestra level.
Coming into question, of course, are fundamental issues. Should Charlotte invest in the theater when more pressing concerns - homelessness, for example - exist? Charlotte ponied up money for updates to the Panthers stadium. What's another $800,000 for a cultural powerhouse?
The Blumenthal expects Council to approve the request.