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Library feasibility study shows strong public support for new facility near Peteetneet Museum
Summary
Consultant Kevin Blalock reported strong public engagement for a proposed Payson library, with the Library Board favoring a site adjacent to the Peteetneet Museum; the study estimated timelines and identified parking and historic-character trade-offs.
Kevin Blalock, the consultant presenting the Payson Library Feasibility Study, told the council that the study gathered extensive public input and evaluated multiple site options. "More than 720 community members participated" in open-house engagement, Blalock said, and 340 survey respondents provided feedback about funding and site preference; 297 respondents indicated willingness to spend public funds on a new library.
The consultant and the Library Board identified the area adjacent to the Peteetneet Museum as the preferred site, noting advantages for programming and synergy with the museum, but council members raised concerns about parking, historic compatibility, accessibility and potential seismic or code upgrades for historic structures. Blalock said the study considered one- and two-story options and estimated roughly 12–14 months for design followed by 12–14 months of construction for a new facility.
Council discussion focused on preserving pioneer-era character while providing modern library functionality. Councilmembers suggested visiting nearby libraries to compare design approaches; no formal action or funding commitment was made at the meeting.
