City Council debates future of Legacy Church building for library and community center

In the heart of Liberty Lake, city council members gathered for a special meeting on February 25, 2025, to discuss the future of the Legacy Church building and its potential role in the community. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as council members weighed the implications of their decisions on local infrastructure and community needs.

A key point of contention emerged around the suitability of the Legacy Church building for housing the city's library. One council member expressed concerns that while the building might suffice for immediate needs, it could quickly become inadequate as the community grows. “I would hate for us to be back here three or four years from now saying we need more space for the library,” they cautioned, emphasizing the importance of planning for the future.

The discussion shifted to the broader vision for a new community center and library, with proposals suggesting that the Town Square could serve as the ideal location. This ambitious plan would not only address the library's needs but also create a multifunctional space for community events. However, the financial implications of such a project loomed large. Council members debated the necessity of selling the Legacy Church building to fund the new developments, with one member highlighting the potential revenue from its sale as crucial for moving forward.

As the conversation unfolded, the idea of retaining the Legacy Church building for future city hall needs was also raised. Some council members argued that keeping the building could provide flexibility for future city operations, while others cautioned against becoming landlords, suggesting that the city should focus on its core responsibilities rather than managing rental properties.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency to reach a decision. Council members recognized that the community's needs were evolving, and the choices they made now would shape Liberty Lake's future. As they prepared for the next meeting, the discussions underscored the delicate balance between immediate needs and long-term planning, leaving residents eager to see how their city leaders would navigate these pivotal decisions.