Some enlightenment to the readers here:
https://www.fresnobee.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/marek-warszawski/article258432298.html
What is not clear from either of the two articles is why the contracted deal by the theater owners, with the church, was not yet a done deal.
My guess is that the sale was in escrow and the seller got a “better deal” from city using taxpayer guaranteed funds and full legal indemnification so the seller is at zero risk to hold out for sale that is well above market value and no liability.
Sequoia Brewery has nothing to lose