Dickinson seeks $750,000 county contribution to expand public library; commissioners defer to budget process

Chris Keller, an engineer for the City of Dickinson, told the commission the Dickinson Area Public Library project would add about 2,547 square feet, separate adult and children’s collections, and address past water infiltration problems. Keller said the total install cost estimate (TIC) is approximately $3.34 million and that the city has budgeted $2.2 million; the Library Foundation has committed $500,000.

Keller requested $750,000 from Stark County, noting that 22% of the library's circulation serves county residents outside city limits: "The library is requesting $750,000 in support from Stark County, and this does represent 22% of the estimated project costs," he said.

Commissioners asked about per‑square‑foot costs (Keller cited roughly $1,343 per square foot), soil and foundation challenges that raised site‑work costs, and whether other funding commitments were in place; Keller said the project had state Historic Preservation Office approval and a guaranteed maximum price was expected from the construction manager within two weeks following a June 25 bid opening.

Several commissioners said the request should be considered during the county budget process rather than being decided immediately. "I think we will, if it's okay with the rest of the group, put this in our hopper of discussion for budget and see where we end up on that," one commissioner said.

The commission did not approve county funding at the meeting and directed the request be included in upcoming budget discussions.