Disappointing Decision--

On Monday, September 10th, the Halton Hills Public Library Board presented the Georgetown Branch Renovation/Expansion Project report during a special meeting of Council. This extensive report confirmed the feasibility of the project and included the conceptual designs and the estimated costs associated with the project.

Despite approval of the project in principle, the Board and staff are deeply disappointed by Council’s decision to put the project “on hold” until funding can be confirmed. The Library Board certainly appreciates that time is needed to receive and consider the construction costs of the Fire Stations, and to determine the availability of water for future residential development. Nonetheless, the Library Board and staff are very concerned that the Georgetown Branch cannot continue to serve this community effectively without the much needed space. Given widely used guidelines for public libraries and the current population of the Georgetown Branch service area, the building should be more than twice the size.

The Board, staff and users of the Georgetown Branch were looking forward to the many improvements reflected in the conceptual plans-- increased space for all collections, an accessible and easy-to-navigate arrangement, a larger and better appointed programming area for children, more seating and study choices, better containment of sound, and more generous space for the entrance and lobby areas.

As per Council’s resolution, there is no time frame attached to this delay. The Library Board will be seeking clarification around timing so that they can begin planning around either a short or long term deferral. The Library Board also intends to review the implications for the project should the delay exceed one year, including a potential escalation of costs.

On a positive note, Council will be considering funds for immediate improvements to the Georgetown Branch, recognizing that the delay may in fact be significant. The amount and timing for the receipt of these funds has yet to be determined.

The Library Board will use the extra time to continue to work with stakeholders to resolve design challenges, upgrade existing furniture and equipment destined for the new Branch, and explore options for a temporary location during the construction phase.

Residents are encouraged share their questions/concerns with Jay Jackson, Chair of the Halton Hills Public Library Board. This can be done through my blog, through my e-mail at diamantij@hhpl.on.ca.