QUINCY VALLEY POST-REGISTER |
PARTNERS |
AFFILIATED SITES |
|||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Copyright 2008 World Publishing Company. All rights reserved. |
|||||
Council considers new library building
City Quincy also decides on ladder truck and rec director
Discussions about what to do regarding a new library, recreation director and ladder truck dominated the Quincy City Council meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 7.
Mayor Jim Hemberry asked the council what it wanted to do for a library in the wake of its decision last month not to purchase the Vordahl’s building.
Hemberry asked the council if it wanted to pursue purchasing another building, or to build a brand-new library facility.
Councilmember Scott Lybbert said he would like to see the city look at building a new library on city property, such as the south end of East Park or the city property adjacent to the Pioneer Elementary School yard.
Hemberry said he had some preliminary discussions with the school district about property near Pioneer Elementary and planned to talk with the school board about the site during its meeting on Oct. 28.
Councilmember Rebecca Young said she didn’t want to see the city give up park space.
“I think we should look at other lots to build on,” she said.
With the addition of Lauzier Park, Lybbert said the city would still have plenty of park space even if the library was built on park land.
“There’s no need for us to look at new property when we have enough property,” said councilmember Tony Gonzalez.
Hemberry said that once a plan is developed, the city would be in good standing to try to secure grant funding for a new library.
“We have the money in hand for grant-matching money,” he said.
Regarding the ladder truck, the council learned that it would have to go through the bidding process to purchase a new ladder truck, so the council approved a call for bids.
Grant County Fire District No. 3 chief Don Fortier said the demonstration ladder truck that the city was looking to purchase for $790,000 had already been sold to another city.
The council also agreed to establish a salary range for a city recreation director and to advertise for the position.
“I would like to see the recreation director on board at the beginning of the year,” Hemberry said.
Councilmember Keith Anstine said he didn’t think the city should create the position.
“I think it’s pure fluff and something that we cannot afford,” he said.
Young disagreed.
“I think it’s something that would be a tremendous benefit to the community.”
Said Hemberry.
“My own opinion is that it’s time to get somebody hired for this position,” he said.
The recreation director would develop programs for youth, work with the police, run the city aquatic center and fulfill other duties, he said.
Lybbert said a recreation director would provide services that many cities offer.
“People coming into our community are looking for this,” he said.
The council agreed to establish an annual salary range between $35,000 and $45,000.
“I think it’s a good idea if it works out,” added councilmember Paul Worley.
