Geneva Library Will Seek $21.8 Million Referendum on April Ballot
The Geneva Library Board of Trustees voted unanimously Thursday (Dec. 22, 2016) to place a bond question on the April 4, 2017, ballot asking voters to approve issuing $21.8 million in 20-year bonds to pay for a new library at 210 S. Sixth St.
The cost includes site preparation, building construction costs, architectural design fees, construction management fees, costs associated with the bond issue, technology infrastructure and furnishings for the new building. The library will use $300,000 from existing reserves, and the remainder of the cost will be paid for by issuing $21.8 million in bonds with a maximum maturity of 20 years. The estimated real estate tax increase for a home with a market value of $300,000 is $98 to $99 per year, or approximately $8.25 per month.
“We are excited to have this opportunity to provide our community with a facility that will provide expanded library service for all ages and stages of life,” said Board President Robert Shiffler. “Our community has asked us to provide additional services and resources that we can’t offer in our current facility. These include a computer/technology lab, spaces to create and learn new skills like robotics, book publishing, cooking and crafts, imaginative play space, parent networking opportunities, meeting, study and function rooms — and on-site parking,” he said.
Now the board will continue with the schematic design process that it began several months ago. The intent of schematic design is to provide preliminary building concepts, a rough site plan and floor plans and cost estimates. Final design will not occur until after the public has approved financing a new building.
In addition, the board will begin an information campaign to notify the community about the April 4, 2017, referendum and the opportunities afforded to the community through expanded library services, by meeting with local boards, committees, service groups, PTOs, and more to share information and answer questions.
To learn more about the project and stay up to date, please visit the library’s website devoted to the building project at www.gpldnewbuilding.org. To get involved, contact Board@gpld.org.
SOURCE: Geneva Public Library news release