February 3, 2006 Minutes
Members present: Linda Coates, Helen Levitt, Herb Snyder, Pat Zavoral, Charles Pace
Members absent: Michael Sebille, John Cosgriff
Others Present: Russ Hodge and Daivd Baker of Hodge Cramer and Associates, Richard Moorhead and Marcia Pulczinski of Image Group, City Attorney Gary Stewart, City of Fargo staff, public, and media
I. Minutes
Helen Levitt moved to approve the minutes of January 6, 2006. Herb Snyder seconded the motion; the motion carried.
II. Discussion of Feasibility Study
Russ Hodge and David Baker presented the feasibility study results stating public/private partnerships are happening throughout the United States with a resurgence of philanthropy to enhance libraries. 79% of those interviewed agreed with the initiative. Strengths of the library include staff, programming, collections, computers, and the Southpointe branch. Challenges include the facility, parking, and the public/private issue. The percentage of participants that said yes or maybe to leading a capital campaign was good compared to national figures. One third of the respondents did not have anyone come to mind when asked about a library spokesperson.
Nationally, the philanthropic issue is across the country. The donor pool in Fargo is dynamic and growing while other parts of the country have shrinking pools. Prospect of unidentified gifts is greater than normally expected.
The consultants recommend a capital campaign of $1.25 - $2.25 million with the spread controllable through awareness and leadership cultivation.
III. Northport Branch
Richard Moorhead distributed construction documents and summaries of working meeting notes that occurred since the last committee meeting. The Northport configuration is set and ready for construction and furnishings bids. The furnishings will be complimentary colors that could be interchangeable between branches. The construction package is in line with the budget. Construction bids will be ready to go out next week and the furnishings bids a week later. Bids would be available to make recommendation to the City Commission in one month.
Charles Pace moved to authorize to proceed with bids for construction and furnishings for the Northport branch. Pat Zavoral seconded the motion; the motion carried.
IV. Southpointe Branch
Several block diagrams were presented showing different configurations of the site with the senior center, shared meeting space, and library. The drive up book drop is causing some design issues with the limited build area due to the fault line on the property. This may be compromised in further analysis. The architects will be close to a schematic design for Southpointe at the next meeting.
V. Main Library
The library board will meet February 21 to discuss issues pertaining to a capital campaign. Design for the main library will not start yet.
Next Meeting
The next meeting will be Friday, March 3, at 9:00 a.m. in the City Commission room. The meeting was adjourned.