Latest hearing in Krikorian theater lawsuit set for Thursday

Many other businesses have opened in Menifee Town Center, but the theater walls remain unfinished. (File photo)

By Doug Spoon, Editor

It has been 90 days since the owner of Krikorian Premiere Theaters appeared before the Menifee City Council, saying he believed work could resume on the stalled project in Menifee Town Center “realistically within 60 to 90 days.”

The construction site remains vacant, however, with the same wooden framework for retail spaces facing Newport Road and unfinished theater walls behind them.

There could be some new developments this week. Some of the parties involved are scheduled to be in court on Thursday for a case management conference hearing in a lawsuit involving George Krikorian’s company and several contractors. According to court records, the original complaint was filed by Sierra Concrete & Landscaping Inc. of Bellflower against TMS Construction Inc. of Colorado and Showprop Menifee LLC, which was formed by Krikorian in 2015.

A series of cross complaints by Showprop Menifee LLC and filings by additional contractors followed, and as many as 19 separate filings were on record in the first few months. Court records indicate that some of the parties have settled, however, and the court case might finally be nearing an end, which would make it easier for construction to continue.

Meanwhile, City economic development director Gina Gonzalez said that the retail sites in front of the theater site remain fully committed by tenants. She said Krikorian “has been working” on the project and she believes construction at that site could resume "very soon."

When he addressed the City Council in October, Krikorian reaffirmed his commitment to the project.

“I’ve invested probably $20 million in this project,” he said. “People have suggested I’m not committed to the project, but I think that number is evidence that I am.”

The theater complex is scheduled to include 16 theater screens – including a 100-foot screen – in addition to a bowling alley, arcade and sports bar.