title
Request for approval to commit $2.0 million in capital project funds as a match for the Flexible Facilities Grant Program for a library expansion project
body
Submitted by:
Peter Loeffel, John Ruggini, Dave Simpson, Melissa Weiss
Department:
Library, Finance, Public Works and Administration
A. Issue
The State of Wisconsin released a grant notice on April 26, 2024 for up to $4.25 million in funding towards Library and Community Center construction and expansion. The City plans to apply to fund a 9,000 square foot expansion of the Library at a total estimated cost of $6.25 million. This would require a City contribution of $2.0 million and an official commitment of funds by the Common Council is required.
B. Background/Options
The City and Library jointly developed a conceptual plan to expand the Library and remodel City Hall. This was presented to a Committee of the Whole on January 17, 2023. Last month, City staff became aware of a grant opportunity that was made public on April 26, 2024 by the State of Wisconsin utilizing American Rescue Plan Funds for Library expansions. The State has allocated $107 million for the "Flexible Facilities Program." to provide grants to units of general local government and tribal governments for purposes of enabling work, education, and health monitoring, including remote options, in public libraries, community centers, and multi-purpose community facilities to address the needs of residents living in communities disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible projects include the construction of new or the renovation or expansion of existing libraries, community centers, or multi-purpose community facilities, and the purchase and/or installation of digital connectivity technology, devices and/or equipment to provide high-speed internet services, including remote options, that will directly enable work, education, and health monitoring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Libraries, senior citi...
Click here for full text