An announcement about the reopening of the movie theater in Gun Barrel City's Heritage Cove is "imminent," according to Economic Development Corp. President Linda Rankin. Rankin shared the news with reporters at the Gun Barrel City Council meeting Jan. 7. Rankin also gave a report to the council about the EDC's work, and she noted the group had worked to provide more lighting and signage for Heritage Cove to help attract new businesses to the commercial district. The movie theater's previous owner closed the property last summer. The EDC immediately began fielding inquiries from potential new theater operators as news of the closing spread. "Finding the right match is as important as getting the lights back on," Rankin told the council. "We are very satisfied with our progress." Heritage Cove, which was built eight years ago, failed to meet expectations. In addition to the theater, only the La Qunita, Aaron's and a restaurant opened in the center. The City Council appointed a task force composed of members from the EDC and the council to study future development for the center and to make recommendations to the EDC board of directors at the Jan. 7 meeting. Rankin said the EDC board members had given countless hours in meetings and workshops to develop strategies for attracting new businesses to Gun Barrel City. The group conducted a survey among citizens and businesses to determine what kind of commercial interests the majority wanted to see developed, she said. "The survey will be used to pursue a marketing direction in 2014," Rankin said. One of the goals of the EDC is to help develop a city business park, Rankin said. "The EDC has been very busy, and we haven't been dragging our feet," Rankin said. Mayor Paul Eaton said during the council meeting he expects Gun Barrel City will see significant growth in residential and commercial developments within the next five years.