After decades of waiting, and promises, for the dilapidated Queen Theater in Kaimuki to get refurbished, time has run out for its property owner. Not only is the 1930s-era building in shambles, but it’s also taken the entire block and surrounding area downhill with it.

The City Council last week passed a resolution requesting the city condemn the 850-seat theater on Waialae Avenue in order to turn the blighted property into a new, community-based entertainment venue. That use would surely be preferable to the illicit and illegal activities now there, which have drawn public complaints.