If Unity Studios is evicted from the Allen Park Studio complex for not paying its rent, it’s unclear whether the property will remain a film studio.
Allen Park Mayor Gary Burtka said the studio, leased to Jimmy Lifton, a 30-year entertainment business veteran, is owned by a group of L.A. and Michigan investors, including Lifton.
The city issued the studio a “Notice to Quit,” which could lead to Unity’s eviction if a resolution is not reached, according to Crain’s Detroit Business.
Unity declared all rent has been paid. “We’re not late on any payments at this point. Any documents have been submitted to the city of Allen Park,” said Eric Cedo, the studio’s director of marketing and public relations.
He declined to comment on how the studio and city ended up in the current financial dispute.
“It’s unfortunate this is being made public. As far are we’re concerned, we’re current on our lease. We’re staying,” he said,
Cedo added that two sound stages are currently under construction. “We’re completely operational and there are no financial issues.”
In his statement, Burtka said, “It is regretful and disappointing that Unity has defaulted on its lease contract, which leaves us no option other than to protect the city and our taxpayers by exercising our right to terminate the lease if necessary.”
“We are in discussions with Unity to reevaluate Unity’s role in the future development of the project. It’s also important to understand that the Allen Park Studio Complex has evolved into a project that is more significant than just Unity.
“Our leasing agents continue to actively seek tenants whose presence here would generate the level of excitement initially envisioned. Our intent is to keep Allen Park as the home of the state’s emerging film and entertainment production industry, and we hope to reach a resolution with Unity.”
