06/12/2012

Town will ask permission to borrow up to $6 million for library in November referendum

Town councilors on June 11, 2012 approved language for the Thomas Memorial Library building project that will appear on the Nov. 6 ballot:

"Shall the Town of Cape Elizabeth borrow up to $6 million to fund a new Thomas Memorial Library, and accept private donations to assist with the project?"

The approved wording differs from that offered at the beginning of the meeting. At the suggestion of Councilor Jim Walsh, the words "up to" were added before the $6 million figure; and, a description of the library as "Cultural Center" was deleted.

"This just gives maximum flexibility and removes confusion," said Councilor David Sherman said of the reference to a cultural center.

Early planning for a new Thomas Memorial Library emphasized the cultural aspects of the facility, Town Manager Michael McGovern explained. "This term has been misunderstood by some individuals," he said. "It really is talking about programming space within the library," he said.

The Town is looking to bond up to $6 million for a new library, and to raise the balance through private fundraising. Adding the words "up to" to the referendum question would assure voters that the Town is working to make the project cost-effective and the best value for the money, Walsh said.

The vote for the wording was unanimous, though McGovern cautioned that lack of a firm dollar commitment might negatively impact private fundraising for the project. "In essence this $6 million was forcing a budget cut of about $1 million, assuming about $1.5 million privately raised," he said. "I just express concern that the 'up to' could be, in the fundraising aspect of this, create some doubt in the future," McGovern said.

A concept design budget submitted by architects in April suggests a $8.2 million budget, not including costs for fundraising, temporary facility and other costs

Sherman said he understood McGovern's concern, but thought flexibility was more important. "I also think it's important for citizens to understand that we may continue, either through the council or a building committee, to figure out ways to make the project more economical," Sherman said.