Des Moines buys a $151K big screen for free flicks

• But the equipment is getting old and is expensive to repair, according to information provided to the city council last month.
• At least four staffers are needed to set up and manage the current equipment, which has led to late start times and attendees leaving early.

What's happening: The new equipment has technology that allows the screen to be visible during daylight, which will allow movies to start before dusk.

• Its daytime flexibility means it can also be used in next year's free summer day camp programs.

Of note: A grant from Prairie Meadows is paying $52,500 and private donations are covering another $17,000 of the cost.

• Mayor Frank Cownie and 25 DSM neighborhood association leaders signed a letter of support earlier this year for the screen.