City council will most likely call a special meeting Thursday or Friday to discuss Lafayette Gatling’s late payment on the Roanoke Rapids Theatre.

City Manager Paul Sabiston said as of this morning there was no payment and no solid word from Gatling on when the more than $196,000 owed the city may be paid.

The city manager was trying to schedule a special meeting either Thursday or Friday so he can discuss the matter with city council.

Gatling, Sabiston said, blames the late payment on the economy and poor ticket sales. “We don’t think they’ve put enough effort in advertising (and promotion).”

The late payment comes as the city works on its budget for the upcoming fiscal year with an April 8 work session date targeted.

The city manager said he hopes something can be worked out with Gatling before a draft budget is recommended to council. If not, Sabiston said, “Certainly it would leave a void” in the budget and most likely require a tax increase.

Mayor Emery Doughtie said council must discuss its options and what its next step will be in the theater issue. “The February payment is almost two months late,” the mayor said. “We’re pretty much getting to the point where we’re in uncharted waters. I know we’re not where we need to be.”

Doughtie said the city is at a point where must look at its options. “I’m not saying we’re trying to boot him out. We’re looking at our options.”