Resident proposes native-plant learning garden next to Myrtle Creek Library with $20,000 committed

At the Aug. 5 meeting of the Myrtle Creek City Council, resident Shane Kelly presented a proposal to convert a 65-by-85-foot dry lot next to the library into a native-plant learning garden. Kelly described the project as a living classroom that would include edible native-plant sections, pollinator plantings, solitary-bee habitat, bird boxes and ADA-accessible paths.

Kelly said the Myrtle Creek Library has committed $20,000 and additional in-kind donations to construct and maintain the garden. He provided a basic maintenance-cost analysis, estimating an initial supplemental-watering cost in year one and projected annual maintenance savings of about $1,278 once the site establishes. He also said the team designed the garden to meet National Wildlife Federation habitat-certification criteria.

Councilors asked about fencing, bee hazards and coordination with existing volunteer efforts. Kelly said they do not plan conventional fencing, will favor non-stinging native bees and would sign a three-year MOU to commit to ongoing maintenance and coordination with city maintenance needs. Council requested a formal site-control document and asked staff to review draft agreement language before the council considers final authorization.

Council direction and next steps Council asked the presenters to prepare a draft MOU and site-control paperwork for staff review. The council indicated it wants to see formal plans before granting site control and asked staff to place the item on a future agenda once the MOU and plans are provided.

Representative quote "We have $20,000 as well as in-kind donations that we'll use to construct and maintain the property," Shane Kelly said when outlining initial funding.