Library landscape transition plan sent back for staff input and director attendance

The Operations Committee reviewed a proposed DeKalb County Library landscape transition plan that would prioritize landscaping upgrades at library branches, encourage sustainable plantings and explore outdoor learning spaces, pavilions and edible plantings at selected locations.

County staff said the plan proposes a phased approach with two priority libraries per district (14 first-phase sites), and that facilities would issue a new RFP for specialized landscape contractors to install and maintain low‑maintenance, sustainable plantings distinct from standard mow-and-blow landscaping contracts.

Commission discussion: Commissioners asked how many libraries are in the county, what services are currently covered by contracts, whether edible gardens could pose liability or pest issues, and whether the facilities department or library director would oversee implementation. Staff said many branches already have fruit trees (Clarkston has a longstanding peach tree), that edible plantings would be activated with community pick days, and that pest control and liability questions should be routed to the law department.

Outcome: Commissioners requested that Library Director Allison (spelled in the packet as Ellison/Allison) attend the next meeting and deferred the item to the June 17 Operations Committee meeting so the director could be present and staff could provide additional detail on the number of branches and current service arrangements.

Provenance: The landscape-transition plan was presented in the packet and discussed by staff and commissioners; the item was deferred for director input.