Williams Center Will Soon Be Owned By Rutherford

RUTHERFORD, NJ — The William Carlos Williams Center for the Performing Arts will soon have a new, but familiar, owner.

Bergen County and the Borough of Rutherford have struck a deal that will soon see the transfer of ownership go from the county to the borough, beginning a new era for the local staple.

"I am thrilled to be able to transfer control of the Williams Center to the Borough of Rutherford," said County Executive Jim Tedesco.

"As a former Mayor, I understand the importance of local control and local issues of importance, and have always sought to work with the Borough and its officials on the future of this facility. I commend the current governing body for their efforts to ensure this property remains a cultural center for Rutherford."

Bergen County has owned the Williams Center since September 1987, and the facility has operated under an expired lease agreement with the Center's Board of Trustees for $1 since 1992, officials said.

But the property has faced its fair share of struggles, especially since 2012.

The 642-seat Newman Theatre was shuttered that October due to safety concerns related to damage sustained during Superstorm Sandy. Further, the theater was slated for auction in August before this deal was struck, which was largely prompted by a public outcry for the town to keep control within the borders.

The Borough Council has approved a redevelopment plan for the area that could bring change, but Northjersey.com reports that the borough's chosen developer intends to preserve as much as they can.

"I would like to thank County Executive Tedesco for working with the Borough to develop a solution that will benefit Rutherford residents and South Bergen as a whole. I’d also like to thank Councilman Tom Mullahey for his hard work in seeing this solution come to fruition and dedication to maintaining a center for the arts and culture in Rutherford," said Acting Mayor Mark Goldsack.

The County administration was set to put forward a resolution that would initiate a sale of the property this week, and the borough is expected to execute a purchase agreement of the property on Monday.

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