What: $3M for library renovation design (R-26-067).
Where it stands: Adopted 10-4 on October 27 after a hearing where the library director and trustees spoke in favor and some residents against.
Next: Joint committee meets November 18 to consider approving the schematic design; design development follows, with a construction funding request expected in late spring 2027.
Details
See the log below for each meeting where this came up.
Reported the $3M design funding approval (R-26-067) the night before; schematic design is 100 percent complete and on schedule. Approved four project invoices totaling about $187,000 on voice votes. Asbestos and mold were found in testing; the library will relocate temporarily by early 2027 at the latest, with costs inside the $45 million project figure. The committee plans to meet November 18 to consider approving the schematic design.
R-26-067 (up to $3M for design) was adopted, 10-4. Two members who voted no said it was over the stalled library staff contract negotiations, not the project; others spoke in support of library workers.
Recommended final passage of R-26-067 by voice vote, with at least one no. Several members said they would move to table it at the full Board until the library staff contract is settled; others said the project and the contract are separate and linking them could raise legal issues. Members who toured the building described leaks and ventilation problems.
R-26-067 (library renovation design, $3M): the library director and trustees spoke in favor, and some members of the public spoke against, citing cost and location. No vote was taken at this hearing.