To: Board of Supervisors
From: Libraries
Agenda Section: Consent
Vote Requirement: Majority
SUBJECT:
title
California State Library: Building Forward Library Infrastructure Grant for the Fortuna Library for Fiscal Year 2022-23
end
RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Adopt a resolution to implement the Building Forward Library Infrastructure grant for the Fortuna Library; and,
2. Authorize the Auditor/Controller to sign a letter similar to Attachment 5 verifying availability of library match funds for the project; and
3. Return to the Humboldt County Library three executed copies of the resolution and the verification of match funds letter from Auditor/Controller
Body
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
California State Library
Library Fund (1500)
DISCUSSION:
The City of Fortuna received $219,083 in Building Forward grant funds for life, safety and critical infrastructure improvements for the Fortuna Library.
The proposed construction alterations of the Fortuna Branch of the Humboldt County Library will primarily involve accessibility upgrades and deferred maintenance repairs to the facility.
In 1989, the County of Humboldt and the City of Fortuna entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) regarding use of the Fortuna Library Building located at 753 Fourteenth Street, Fortuna, California.
In 2022, the State of California opened grant applications for library upgrades, called the Building Forward Library Infrastructure Program. The City of Fortuna, with assistance from the County of Humboldt, submitted a grant application, which was awarded by the State in October 2022.
The proposed remodel of the Fortuna Branch of the Humboldt County Library will involve the redesign and remodel of the existing library footprint and interior amenities so that the library is fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) and has a contemporary aesthetic to promote the comfort of library patrons. The redesign addresses community needs by providing an expanded teen room, efficient technology and study areas, improved paths of travel, and dynamic event space. The Fortuna Library is dedicated to providing an accessible and contemporary environment that meets the diverse needs of the growing community. The current library layout has several limitations, including insufficient space for study and technology use, a lack of easily utilized event space, and an inadequate footprint for teen and Spanish language materials. In addition to removing accessibility barriers, the proposed project addresses limitations so that the library will be better equipped to offer the programs, materials, and services needed to provide essential services to all members of the community.
The City of Fortuna and the County of Humboldt have mutually agreed that the County of Humboldt shall be the lead agency for project administration and the County of Humboldt shall invoice the City of Fortuna for the grant funded project costs due within thirty (30) days as progress payments. The City of Fortuna shall be the “Authority Having Jurisdiction” and provide periodic progress inspections of the project.
This project will feature universal accessible design which will allow patrons access to all library programs, services, and activities regardless of their physical ability.
Upgrades in interior finishes and paths of travel will provide a welcoming and safe environment for patrons. The installation of an emergency generator will provide continuity of library services during power surges and power outages. People will be able to access library materials, programs, and services as well as charge personal electronic devices. The proposed project will eliminate barriers to access as defined under the ADA. This promotes inclusive access to patrons for all library programs, services, and activities regardless of their physical ability.
The project will be constructed under current California Building Code and will feature upgrades to lighting systems that replace outdated fixtures with newer energy saving technologies. The overall facility energy footprint will decrease as a result of this project.
The Fortuna Library is committed to fulfilling its role as an inclusive community convener, where patrons can access information, utilize resources, and enjoy relevant, educational, and enriching programs. The existing configuration of the library limits the full potential of what can be offered. The needs of the community continually evolve, and the Fortuna Library has consistently taken a responsive approach to adapting to best serve patrons. The Rose Perenin Foundation has been a key contributor in providing funding for extended hours to provide dynamic programming, revenue for a LatinX Outreach Coordinator to provide support and connection to the library’s community’s Spanish-speaking/English- Language learning community, and support for library databases and materials. With an increasing number of senior citizens, young families, and Spanish speaking residents, it is critical that the library includes space for programs, services, and materials to meet a wide variety of needs. This includes space for early literacy programs and story times, guest lecturers, cultural events, workforce development programs, Spanish language and English language learning programs, and technology classes. Removing barriers, increasing the efficiency
of the floorplan, and applying universal acceptable design will allow the library to continue to grow its offerings and support the community through responsive and dynamic programming for patrons of all ages and abilities.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
|
Expenditures (Fund, Budget Unit) |
FY23-24 Projected |
|
Budgeted Expenses |
$109,542 |
|
Additional Appropriation Requested |
$$ |
|
Total Expenditures |
$109,542 |
|
Funding Sources (1500 621) |
FY23-24 Projected* |
|
General Fund |
$$ |
|
State/Federal Funds |
$$ |
|
Fees/Other |
$$ |
|
Use of Fund Balance |
$109,542 |
|
Total Funding Sources |
$109,542 |
*Projected amounts are estimates and are subject to change.
Narrative Explanation of Financial Impact:
The Humboldt County Library received a 50% reduction in the required local match contribution for this project. We are asking your board to approve $109,542 match funds for allowable costs for this project; the library is requesting a Fund Balance transfer for the match. This is reflected in the library’s proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2023-24.
STAFFING IMPACT:
Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impact:
The Fortuna Library's Building Forward Implementation Team will work collaboratively with the, the ADA Compliance Team, and City of Fortuna staff on project management, procurement, design, acquisition, and purchasing. Building Forward team members will build project time into their regular work schedules. The Library will not need to hire extra personnel to facilitate this project.
STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK:
This action supports your Board’s Strategic Framework by providing for and maintaining infrastructure, creating opportunities for improved safety and health, protecting vulnerable populations, managing our resources to ensure sustainability of services, seeking outside funding sources to benefit Humboldt County needs.
Core Roles: Provide for and maintain infrastructure
New Initiatives: Manage our resources to ensure sustainability of services
Strategic Plan: 4.2 - Create a community where county programs services and facilities are accessible to all with disabilities
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
California State Library
City of Fortuna
ALTERNATIVES TO STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Board could reject the Building Forward funds from the State Library and the fund balance transfer request. This is not recommended because these funds support your Board’s Strategic Framework outlined in the discussion section of this report.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Building Forward grant proposal
2. California State Library’s award agreement and certificate of compliance
3. California State Library’s award letter
4. Resolution to designate County Library cash match to Building Forward Project
5. Letter from Auditor/Controller verifying the availability of match funds
PREVIOUS ACTION/REFERRAL:
Board Order No.: N/A
Meeting of: N/A
File No.: N/A