HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The Honolulu City Council has approved a measure allowing the city to move forward with efforts to acquire the Queen Theater on Waialae Avenue in Kaimuki. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Built in 1936, the theater has been vacant since 1985 and has deteriorated over the years. City Council defers vote on Vacant Homes Tax The daughter of the theater’s former owner, now in charge of renovations, said work has already begun. According to her attorney, much of the exterior has been repainted, and the upstairs area of the theater has been cleared out. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news The attorney added that they are currently waiting for permits to begin work on the marquee.