Leon Valley council delays decision on library annex and orders temporary closure pending town-hall input

Councilors spent more than an hour on Nov. 18 weighing short‑term repairs, replacement options and priorities for the library annex — a small modular structure used for book sales, archives and volunteer meetings. Public Works Director Melinda Mort told the council that one firm quoted a fully accessible prefabricated building for about $150,000 and recommended budgeting $200,000 to allow for site work; a prior estimate had been as high as $300,000.

Mort and the library director described heavy volunteer use, archive storage needs and programming that depends on the annex. Friends of the Library leaders said the group raises roughly $2,000 a year from book sales, and they floated fundraising alternatives including online sales, special events and a fire‑sale if the annex were closed. Councilors expressed concern about spending priorities, ADA compliance, long‑term maintenance and whether the city should spend reserves now or place the project on a prioritized capital list for citizen input.

Concerns included structural condition (possible decking damage under the roof), short‑term fixes (tarps that may blow off and attract animals), and the lack of a memorandum of understanding with the Friends while the annex has occupied city property for decades. Several councilors urged adding the annex to the January town‑hall infrastructure priority list so residents can weigh it against restrooms, parks ADA work and other projects.

After public remarks from Friends and the library board, Councilor Roscoe moved to table agenda item 3.6 until Jan. 24 and to temporarily close the annex to outside public activity pending the town‑hall; Councilor Heil seconded. The motion carried (council approved the tabling and temporary closure). Staff will present the item as part of the January infrastructure discussion and pursue revised cost estimates and options for a prefabricated building, additional signage, and archival storage alternatives.

The council’s decision pauses immediate spending and directs staff to gather cost comparisons and community priorities before any commitment to rebuild or replace the annex.