The State Theater building at 515 E Street in downtown Marysville is pictured. The city recently released a long-standing nuisance abatement lien tied to the property, a step officials say could help clear the way for new ownership and long-term improvements.

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - After a decade long legal entanglement, there may be progress ahead for the historic State Theater in Marysville.

On Dec. 30, 2025, owner Don Melvin reported that the city released a nuisance abatement lien dating to 2009, a roughly $47,000 penalty he said prevented him from financing repairs or selling the building.

City officials confirmed the lien was released conditionally and said the move reflects progress toward resolving a long-standing enforcement matter.

Marysville Community and Economic Development Director Dan Flores described the release as “a very positive step forward” and part of a pathway toward new ownership, reinvestment and long-term stewardship of the downtown property.

Conditions of the release require that the property be sold and escrow closed within 60 days of the release date, that the front windows be repaired and that site cleanup be completed to the satisfaction of the city’s building official.

“These conditions were designed to ensure the property moves promptly toward compliance and reinvestment,” Flores said. “The prospective buyer is an experienced commercial real estate professional, which gives the City confidence that the property will be properly maintained and improved going forward.”

The interior of the historic State Theater in downtown Marysville. City officials say a conditional lien release and anticipated transfer of ownership could mark progress toward reinvestment and future reuse of the building.

Flores said the city anticipates a transfer of ownership as part of the resolution and called it an opportunity for a fresh start and renewed commitment to maintaining the building in compliance with city codes.

While no project has been formally approved, city officials said they are encouraged by concepts being explored for the property under new ownership. Ideas under consideration include adaptive reuse options, such as indoor pickleball courts and other multipurpose uses, while preserving the historic exterior character of the theater.

Melvin has previously expressed hopes of restoring the building as a theater and voiced frustration over delays, fines and fees tied to the city’s enforcement actions. He said he ultimately chose to settle, citing financial concerns.

“I really didn’t want to settle especially with these terms but I cannot keep putting money into the theater and the legal battle as well,” Melvin said.

Flores said that while the lien release resolves the prior nuisance abatement action, the city will continue to enforce building and safety codes under any future ownership, consistent with its focus on public safety, building integrity and quality of life.

Looking ahead, Flores said the city’s priority is to see the State Theater substantially improved, actively used and well maintained in a way that contributes positively to downtown Marysville.