EDC discusses comprehensive outdoor improvements for Austin Memorial Library; board supports seeking design help

The City of Cleveland Economic Development Corporation on Oct. (October meeting) discussed a comprehensive plan for outdoor improvements at Austin Memorial Library, including shade structures, a small water-play feature, a stage, raised-bed gardens and sensory-play elements. The board and library staff said they want to pursue a professional design before committing to construction.

Library staff member Mary told the board the library piloted an outdoor play day and "it was very well received," but patrons complained about lack of shade. "The only complaint that we had was that it was hot and there was no shade," Mary said. She described plans for an educational water-play table, raised-bed gardening for children, a stage for occasional performances and a sensory play area.

Emilio Liborio, community development director, framed the discussion as a shift from piecemeal fixes to a more comprehensive approach: the board "would like to actually have somebody that is more experienced in this" to develop a functional layout that accounts for programming, drainage and future maintenance. "You're gonna end up kind of saving cost in the long run, having not having to undo things," said Brent McWaters, city council member.

Board members and staff raised design, drainage and maintenance questions. Roger Brooks and other members emphasized maximizing usable space and avoiding roofs or structures that would obstruct outdoor movie projection. Liborio said the EDC would likely pursue either architectural or landscape-architecture proposals and explore grant funding to support larger elements.

Library staff said produce from the raised beds would be available to patrons and that the Liberty County Extension Office had offered assistance with canning if the garden yields enough. Board members offered in-kind help: one director offered a volunteer plumber to review plumbing needs for a water play feature, and a board member offered to donate seeds or materials when planting begins.

The meeting record shows discussion and general support for pursuing a design and funding plan; the board did not record a formal vote to contract for design services during the meeting. Board members asked staff to return with options after soliciting proposals and estimating costs.

If the board follows through, the work would be phased: initial design and engineering, followed by staged construction as funding allows. Library staff said an aim is to start planting in spring; no firm construction timetable or budget was specified at the meeting.

Discussion points: the pilot outdoor play day, the need for shade and drainage, educational features (water-play table, raised beds), and hiring a design firm. Direction: board members expressed support for seeking professional design proposals and pursuing grants; no formal contract award or funding decision was recorded.

Ending: Library staff and EDC directors agreed to refine plans and return with cost estimates and design options at a future meeting.