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By WILLIAM HOLLOMANStaff Writer

Mount Olive officials intend to hire an engineer to inspect the old Center Street Theatre, which has been vacant for decades.

The downtown facility, says building inspector Justin Hill, needs to be checked inside for structural integrity. He has been denied access to the deteriorating structure.

Kenansville attorney Joseph Ezzell appeared at the town commissioners meeting on July 12. He presented a letter he received from an engineer who inspected the building and stated it was in sound condition.

However, Mount Olive town attorney W. Carroll Turner, challenged Ezzells letter.

Overhead photos taken by a drone showed considerable damage to the buildings roof, which has collapsed. It has become a safety concern to pedestrians and is adjacent to Ribeyes Steakhouse, a popular town restaurant.

Turner forwarded those photos to an out-of-town engineering firm and asked for their opinion on the buildings safety.

If they concur, then if the property owners deny us entry into the building, I will seek an administrative search warrant of the building, Turner said.

Town Manager Jammie Royall said its an issue that needs to be resolved, and the sooner, the better.

The owners have been asked to appear before the commissioners during the boards Sept. 12 meeting and present a plan of action regarding the propertys future.

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Town to hire engineer to inspect old Center Theater - Mount Olive Tribune