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Council receives update on library renovation; project estimated at about $2.0 million, funding gap remains
Summary
City staff reported the library renovation design is at the construction-document stage, with bids expected in summer and construction planned after Labor Day; funding includes a $1.5 million HUD grant, $135,000 from the library endowment and other donations, leaving an estimated $300,000–$400,000 shortfall.
City staff updated the St. Clair Shores City Council on the library renovation project Monday, reporting the design has reached the construction-document phase and bids are expected this summer.
A staff presenter told the council construction documents are expected in July, with bids to be advertised that month and returned in August. "Construction documents are estimated in July," the presenter said, and the plan is to award bids by the council's late-August meeting so work can start after Labor Day.
Nut graf: The project team estimates the full project at roughly $2.0 million. Funding reported at the meeting includes a $1.5 million U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant, $135,000 the library board authorized from its endowment, a $10,000 pledged donation from the Friends of the Library, and library fund balance resources. Staff said those sources still leave an approximate $300,000 to $400,000 shortfall that will be refined when bids return.
Staff described planned construction sequencing designed to avoid the library's busiest summer months: the facility would limit services during construction with curbside pickup, makeshift service stations and potential satellite programming. The presenter said the library anticipates roughly a six-month closure once construction begins and that some part-time staffing costs could be reduced during that period, which staff estimate could save about $100,000 from next year's operating budget.
Councilmembers asked about exterior changes, paver repairs and how the project would incorporate donor recognition. Councilmember Roussy noted the project affects spaces used year-round and supported fundraising and sponsorship outreach to reduce the remaining deficit. Staff said the library board had authorized $135,000 from the endowment and that the friends group planned a $10,000 gift; staff also said the library fund balance is about $400,000.
Ending: No action was required; staff will return with updated construction bids and a refined funding plan. The council's packet and discussion indicate the project remains on track for bid in July and award in August with construction after Labor Day.
