Soda Springs council approves library refresh phase, adds $10,000 from fund balance

The Soda Springs City Council voted Feb. 18 to proceed with phase two of a planned library refresh and to add $10,000 from the city’s fund balance to cover potential costs tied to phase three. The motion, made by Councilman Daniel Larsen and seconded by Councilman Ryan Carpenter, passed unanimously.

Library representative Beth Cheirrett announced Drew Erickson of Woodeye Industries as the contractor for phase two and said the project estimate currently ranges from $18,000 to $20,000. Cheirrett and Kate Lauck cautioned that hidden issues—such as asbestos behind a demo wall or the need to replace outdated light fixtures and ceiling elements—could raise costs once work begins. Cheirrett said the contractor is familiar with the building and aware of “pitfalls that he may come across.”

Larsen moved that the council authorize phase two and direct $10,000 from the fund balance toward phase three should unforeseen issues arise; Carpenter seconded and “all were in favor,” according to the meeting minutes. Mayor Paul Gritton and Council members agreed that staff should be notified if unexpected conditions appear so the council can consider further funding.

The council discussed budgeting flexibility and the need for city involvement if remediation or additional demolition is required. The motion does not appropriate a specific contingency beyond the $10,000 addition; any further costs would require separate council action.

Next steps include a staff meeting with the contractor to finalize details, scheduling the work, and moving forward with demolition and construction pending any required environmental or safety remediation.