Taxpayers will continue to support the Egyptian Theatre next year, as City Council approved TIF funding to continue through the 2014 fiscal year.

TIF funds come from property taxes and are set aside to be used within the city. Mayor John Rey said the council gave the theater, 135 N. Second St., $125,000 this year to go toward a sprinkler system, plaster repair and other priorities. Rey said the theater requested the remaining $90,800 that was not spent this year to roll over into the 2014 fiscal year.

“Due to the uncertain nature of construction in historic buildings, we felt this allocation was appropriate,” Rey said.

Fourth ward Alderman Bob Snow was one of the aldermen who voted for the resolution.

“Even though [the city doesn’t] have ownership over this property, it still serves the community,” Snow said. “I’m glad to see it stick around.”

First ward Alderman David Jacobson was not sure the community values the property.

“I’m rather uneasy about this resolution,” Jacobson said. “We’ve thrown $2.5 million into that property with no assurance they can operate a business successfully or break even. The community needs to come and support that asset.”

Jacobson said the $2.5 million comes from TIF funds taxpayers have paid since the funding started. He is concerned that if the property is sold taxpayers would get nothing in return.

After the resolution was approved, Rey gave an update on the search for city manager.

“We have narrowed the field of candidates,” Rey said. “We’re in the process of negotiating with one candidate who we’ll have more information on as we proceed.”

Rey said he anticipates negotiations will be successful, and he will have a news release available when more information is available. Rey hopes the city manager will be in place by the beginning of 2014.