Posted by Robert
a resident of another community
on May 21, 2018 at 12:49 pm

How about a parking structure? You can't expect to have a functioning event center without adequate parking, and Menlo is already jam-packed with cars. If there isn't a parking structure to go along with this construction, the construction shouldn't happen.

Posted by pdj
a resident of Menlo Park: Belle Haven
on May 22, 2018 at 5:35 pm
pdj is a registered user.

Dear Mayor Ohtaki, Mayor Pro-Tem Mueller, Councilmembers Carlton, Keith and Cline,

From the perspective of a retired educator, an equitable, dynamic and robust 21st century library system is a key to a well-educated populace. This includes a brick and mortar Belle Haven branch library that will augment if not provide the missing educational link for library users of all ages. Today we must create a place and space for knowledge to ensure information is universally accessible.

Although I am concerned about the disruption to the Menlo Park Children’s Center and removal of old growth redwood trees, it appears that the Laurel side location is logical. Consideration should also be given to locating our 21st century state-of-the-art main branch library in the parking lot between City Hall and the Gymnasium Center. Either location leaves the current library site as open space until a final decision is made on the Ravenswood Avenue rail separation.

The inclusion of amenities like meeting rooms and council chambers while admirable, must also allocate space for the history of our beautiful city, by including space for the Menlo Park Historical Association. Cities often include their historical society/association space within their libraries.

The timeline for elements of the library system is clear. The timeline for the Belle Haven Branch Library can and should be adjusted to allow completion in January 2023. Please note the needs assessment for the Belle Haven Library branch has not been publish and should not be finalized tonight.

With the enormous wealth within and surrounding our city, I urge the council to leverage the donation without burdening taxpayers. The Council support and approval of an equitable library system will very likely engender donations. City funds should be used for desperately needed infrastructure repairs and upgrades. This would help to alleviate concerns by many citizens regarding how tax dollars are being utilized.

After a careful review, I support the library system improvements and strongly urge the council to include the above items in its vote for our library system.