Library-site reuse task force seeks a Planning Commission representative

The Library Site Reuse Task Force asked the Lake Oswego Planning Commission on June 22 to nominate a commission member to serve on the task force that will study options for the existing library site after a planned relocation. The request noted a preference for a representative who lives in or near downtown, First Addition or Evergreen, but staff said that residency in those neighborhoods is not a strict requirement.

A commissioner who raised the item said the task force has already conducted studies into relocating the library due to capacity, seismic vulnerability and water-intrusion issues in the current facility. Manager Olsen told commissioners the task force would meet approximately six times between August and the following April — roughly once every one to two months — and described the commitment as a short-term volunteer assignment.

Commissioner Guinea said he was interested but noted workload constraints; commissioners discussed contacting colleagues by email to recruit a volunteer and emphasized that a commissioner with prior experience would be ideal. Staff asked that interested commissioners apply by July 3 so the task force could have representation before the next planning commission meeting.

The task force will focus on whether the existing library site is viable for future uses after relocation and on evaluating options and constraints associated with any redevelopment or re-use.