Work on preparing the old Melody Restaurant for opening has been so extensive that the town of Coulee Dam has given the owner, Juan Moreno another month’s free rent in exchange for an extended contract.

City officials pondered another problem at the restaurant site, which is owned by the town, in a 40-year-old, walk-in cooler and a same-age freezer.

Public works director Barry Peacock told the council that each unit would cost the city $10,000 or more.

Councilmember Bob Poch noted that probably neither unit was energy efficient and that parts to repair either might be difficult to come by. He suggested that Peacock get prices to repair the units before the council agree to purchase new ones. The building, Peacock said, was 69 years old. It also houses a bowling alley and the community theater.

Moreno and Mayor Quincy Snow appeared at Okanogan County to sign the lease agreement.

It was agreed that Moreno pay the town $800 a month, plus $102.72 per month for leasehold tax.

The earlier agreed lease was extended to three years.

The leaseholder has spent several months gutting the restaurant and preparing it for opening. No opening date has been set.

Even Mayor Snow and his wife have been active in trying to help get the place ready. The two helped with some of the painting of the restaurant.