Library board weighs parking lot repairs, roof EIFS leaks, HVAC and security upgrades

The West Bend Community Memorial Library Board discussed a package of building maintenance and capital-improvement needs at its Nov. 19 meeting, including a $74,200 quote to repave the library parking area, continuing leaks tied to exterior EIFS panels, a proposal for a door fob access system and draft budgets for HVAC and roof work.

The details: Library director Steve said the city-provided quote for asphalt paving of the lot (not including curbing) was $74,200 and that the quote covers only asphalt; curbing repairs would be additional. "Paving alone was at $74,200 for the asphalt," Steve said. He told the board he will follow up with City public works staff to see whether an in-house patch or partial overlay could extend the lot’s life and reduce immediate cost to the library.

Why it matters: the lot is used primarily by staff and volunteers and has visible sections in poor condition. Board members and city staff discussed whether the city can perform a patch or overlay in-house to extend the pavement for five to 10 years rather than a full replacement now.

Board and city staff cautioned against assuming a full replacement is required. Brett (speaking in his city capacity) and other members said public works has added equipment and performed alley and parking work recently, and that an in-house patch/overlay may be feasible. Doug in public works previously expressed hesitancy to take on a large contract immediately but might do a patch or an in-house job if the library funds it and if the work suits his crew’s capacity.

Roof and EIFS leaks: the director reported multiple contractors had been scheduled to inspect EIFS panels (textured exterior coating) that the director identified as a major point of water infiltration—particularly north- and south-facing EIFS sections. Steve said several contractors repeatedly failed to show for inspections, leaving the cost and scope of repair "not specified" at this time. The board discussed hiring contractors or using city resources to identify caulking or other fixable items.

Clock, lift costs and roof access: Steve reported an initial deposit for clock repair was paid to Verdon Construction (clock repair vendor) and that a lift rental required for the clock work added an unexpected $2,300 to costs. "A lift cost right now, a week with a lift is... dollars 2,300," Steve said.

Interior projects: the board reviewed window-blind replacements (north and east sides prioritized because of glare), and considered floor-covering options for next year’s slate replacement, weighing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) against industrial carpet. Board members noted carpet could show winter wear faster but offers slip resistance; others pointed to durable commercial carpet used in hospitals as an option. The director said final decisions will factor maintenance and cleaning frequency.

Security and access control: the library has a proposal to install a fob-based door access system covering employee entrances, the circulation room and business office. Steve said one fob system can be programmed so outside groups (for example Parks and Recreation) can be granted limited access without opening all secure areas. The proposal includes electronic door strikes. "If we have one fob, and Parks and Rec has it, they would have access to the entire building" unless codes are set to restrict doors, Steve explained; the vendor package the director reviewed included strikes and the full installation.

HVAC and CIP timing: Steve and Todd reviewed a vendor (Aviro) estimate for extensive HVAC replacements including rooftop units and boilers. The director said those costs will be folded into the library’s capital improvement plan (CIP) and spread over multiple years, but the precise schedule and budget allocation remain to be finalized.

Next steps: the board asked Steve to meet with Doug from public works to assess whether a patch/overlay is feasible before the winter and to obtain contractor cost estimates for EIFS and roof repairs. The board indicated interest in using fund balance if needed for an interim patch, with an eye to re-evaluating for CIP inclusion later.

Ending: The board did not take a formal vote on these facility items at the Nov. 19 meeting; members directed staff to get site inspections and updated quotes and to return with recommendations.