January 6, 2006 Minutes
Members present: Linda Coates, John Cosgriff, Helen Levitt, Pat Zavoral, Charles Pace
Members absent: Herb Snyder, Michael Sebille
Others Present: Library Board of Directors President Betty Kerns, City of Fargo staff, public, and media
I. Minutes
Helen Levitt moved to approve the minutes of September 1, 2005. Charles Pace seconded the motion; the motion carried.
II. Discussion of design phase timeline
Richard Moorhead distributed notes from meetings with Charles Pace and library staff regarding the design of the north library. Asbestos has been found in the floor tile. Asbestos removal is at the cost of the owner. Construction bids will be opened by the end of February for a targeted June occupancy.
The Southopinte site survey and first stage graphic program was distributed. Construction bids could be opened by the end of March. With a fourteen month construction schedule, the Southpointe library could have July 2007 occupancy.
The feasibility study consultants have interviewed 24 people in December. January another fifteen interviews will be conducted. The final report delineating issues and an estimated amount to be raised will be presented to the library board of directors by the end of January.
Construction bids for the main library project could be opened as early as fall 2006. This could be sooner if positive results are received from the feasibility study, but summer is not the optimal bid climate. Schematic designs will be presented to the public to move through the cycle. Three public meetings will be conducted spring to summer 2006. Construction will take approximately eighteen months. Plans need to be in place for after the bid opening. Temporary provisions would be implemented immediately after bid opening.
III. Discussion of main library transition plan
Charles Pace distributed a document outlining transition issues. Options for temporary service in the downtown area range from a small kiosk to a store front operation in city owned or leased space to fully replicating services currently provided. 20,000 square feet will be needed for storage and office space. Space to house the collection may be an issue. More likely it will be cold storage with limited access. No lay offs are planned, but any vacant positions would not be filled until the new main library opened. Internal transitioning of staff reorganization, cross training, and materials weeding is already under way.
Next Meeting
The next meeting will be Friday, February 3, at 9:00 a.m. in the City Commission room. The meeting was adjourned.