Russell said theater backers have met with various private foundations in Utah to secure private funding in exchange for naming rights, but foundations generally want to see that certain projects have broad community support. A donation from the county could be seen as that support.

He said he's optimistic that a private foundation will eventually come through for the center.

Jeff Novak, a Bountiful musician, urged that theater backers find more private funding.

Ron Mortensen, co-founder of CitizensForTaxFairness.org, said he would like to see the business plan for the theater so residents know what its revenue projections are, how many shows could play there, whether no-bid contracts will be sought and whether the center could bring new tourism to Davis County or just shuffle the tourism that already happens.

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