Council clears the way for new library

By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff Nov 17 2006 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
A massive new structure is being hailed as the answer to cramped library space and a burgeoning bureaucracy. Vernon council has instructed staff to proceed with preliminary plans for a three-storey, 90,000-square-foot facility between city hall and the library. It would consume parts of two parking lots as well as some green space. “The architect is trying to get it to all fit in,” said Coun. Jack Gilroy.
It’s anticipated Okanagan Regional Library would take on the ground floor — 30,000-square-feet — for a new branch, while the remaining two floors could be used for city activities or the RCMP. While some residents may fear such a structure will take away from the feel of the civic grounds, Coun. Patrick Nicol isn’t concerned. “Going up makes some sense,” he said. The ORL board agreed Wednesday to negotiate with the city over the proposed building. “We need to put our shoulder to the wheel so we can get this accomplished,” said Nicol, who sits on the ORL board. With a price tag of $18 million, discussions will include where construction funding will come from — whether the city and ORL both contribute. Another issue is whether ORL would own the ground floor through a strata arrangement. If all goes well, the building and the new library could be in place by 2010. “ORL and city staff are working well together to accomplish this goal,” said Carol Williams, ORL chairman. A provincial infrastructure grant is being sought for construction. “We’re pinning our hopes on that,” said Williams. If the library were to relocate from its existing facility, Gilroy believes that vacant space could be used by the museum, which also requires more room. The city has purchased the Coldstream Hotel property and much of the surrounding block for a cultural complex. While the library and museum may not be part of the equation, Gilroy is confident community interests will prevail. “We want to put people there and businesses,” he said of a mix of commercial outlets and housing. “We could have green space, walkways and the art gallery.”