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Board backs $3M CDBG bid and temporary‑relocation planning for county library expansion
Summary
San Benito supervisors directed staff to pursue a competitive $3 million CDBG grant for an 18,000 sq ft library expansion, to advertise a March 17 public hearing, and to explore temporary relocation options (mobile services, leased space or trailers) so construction can proceed with minimal service disruption.
County staff outlined options to expand the San Benito County Free Library to roughly 18,000 square feet and flagged higher‑than‑expected costs for electrical, plumbing and temporary relocation during construction.
The CEO noted design work to date was conceptual and that some previously‑assumed systems would need more extensive replacement than estimated two years ago. Staff recommended applying for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to increase the project budget and improve the project's competitiveness by designating part of the building as a resilience warming/cooling center.
"Libraries are much more than just repositories of books. They are places of higher learning, community engagement and resources for our entire community," a library supporter told the board during public comment. Labor and community groups urged local hiring and prevailing‑wage contractors if the project secures federal funds.
After public comment, the board voted 5‑0 to direct staff to submit a CDBG application for up to $3 million, to schedule and attend a March 17 community hearing as part of the CDBG process, and to work with the CEO and county departments to identify temporary relocation or interim service options including the county's existing book/mobile service, leased space, or modular units. Several supervisors urged pushing to complete the whole build at once if possible to reduce time and cost.
Next steps: staff will prepare the CDBG application for board consideration and facilitate the March 17 community hearing; the board asked staff to return with more detailed cost estimates, environmental clearance status, and temporary relocation options.
