There were six different considerations for the Carroll City Council to review, discuss and approve in regards to the proposed expansion plans for the Carroll Public Library and the renovation of the Commercial Savings Bank building into a new city hall. And throughout the entire presentation, not one of the five city council members present, nor the audience, raised one word of caution or concern over approving each measure in a giant step forward for the library project. The council reviewed and approved the floor plans and elevation drawings presented by OPN Architects along with a memo from them costs before going on to approve a resolution to set the project budget at $6.8 million. They also approved a gift agreement with Commercial Savings Bank, receipt of a letter on use of Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) dollars for the projects and they made a commitment to move forward with an Aug. 1 bond referendum. City Manager, Mike Pogge-Weaver provided a funding breakdown.
A preview of the plans has been provided to the public, and Mayor, Eric Jensen, and council members, Clay Haley and LaVern Dirkx, gave their opinion of the renderings and shared what they are hearing, so far, on the streets.
When the city officially enters into the agreement to accept the estimated $1 million gift of the North Adams Street Commercial Savings Bank building, they will also be asked to make a decision on the purchase of the out lots owned by the Moehn and Milligan families. Pat Moehn explained how they arrived at an estimated price for each parcel.
The council then approved receipt of the gift agreement and set a cap of $200,000 total for both lots when it comes time to consider their purchase. Council member Misty Boes was not present at the meeting, but the remaining five unanimously approved all six items. Pogge-Weaver says a group of citizens are forming a committee to organize a referendum campaign, and he adds, he would be happy to speak to groups and share the images and facts for both of the proposed projects. The city has set up a referendum website. People can simply log on to www.cityofcarroll.com/referendum to see the drawings and floor plans, the estimated costs and proposed funding sources as well as a list of frequently asked questions.
