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Council pauses on major library renovation pending full library-board review
Summary
Council reviewed a feasibility study and discussed phased remodeling versus an addition for the Blackduck library; members said $65,000 in feasibility funds exists but larger construction estimates would require grant-seeking and library-board buy-in before proceeding.
The Blackduck City Council spent an extended work-session segment reviewing a feasibility study for the municipal library and agreed to delay a final decision until the library board can meet and deliver formal input.
Council staff summarized the study and the trade-offs between reworking the existing footprint and building an addition. Staff noted constraints from lot lines and accessibility that limit build-out and warned that certain interior changes could preclude an easy later expansion. Council members emphasized a phased approach — reconfiguring the current interior as a first phase while preserving the option to add on later if outside funding is secured.
The meeting recorded two key funding figures mentioned by staff: about $65,000 currently set aside for feasibility work and higher construction estimates discussed in the study (a $235,000 figure for some addition options was referenced, though total project estimates in other sections were larger). Councilors repeatedly said those sums are insufficient to complete an addition and that grant applications and other fundraising would be necessary.
Christina (council member) said the library board needs to meet together to reach consensus before the council commits to a path. Mary, identified as a library-board representative, and other council members agreed the board’s review is essential. Members set a goal to include the library board in the September work session and to circulate clearer cost and phasing options beforehand.
Councilors also raised a political consideration: visible reserves in library accounts can complicate future levy requests, a point staff said is governed by a local policy that limits how certain funds may be used (staff stated those funds are restricted to physical facilities). A local-option sales tax referendum that will go before voters in November was mentioned as a potential source of longer-term revenue if approved.
Next steps: the council asked staff to convene the library board, refine the study into clearer phase-one options that minimize demolition, and pursue grant opportunities while preparing for a public discussion at the September work session.
