On February 5, 2008, I made the recommendation not to pursue plans to consolidate the two branch libraries and the community center at Kings Park.  Throughout this process the goal has been to have significant improvement in the delivery of service at the most reasonable cost.

Recent estimates for leasing relocation space for our libraries, senior center and construction of a new gym totaled $43.2 million.  Even if the Town issued 30-year bonds, we felt the cost was too high, particularly given uncertainties over the economy. 

No one understands more clearly than I that high taxes are a major concern for all of us.  Each one of us must ask whether we also need to fund critical items that provide services to our community? 

The current library branches and Pinegrove Community Center are in poor physical condition.  They require million of dollars of improvements to meet minimum safety and comfort standards, yet still would not have the size, capacity, or layout to provide services for seniors, youth, and all others in our community.

But this is not a new story.  Debate over what to do with the libraries and community center goes back at least twenty years.  There have been numerous studies and surveys, but no consensus has been reached.

Unfortunately, every time it seems that progress will be made, a small group of individuals puts their convenience above everyone else’s and thwarts the forward momentum.  All the community involvement which we embraced during this process was not enough to bring all groups to the table to develop and implement a true community solution.

The Town Board and I are still committed to resolving this issue.  Sound government always involves balancing competing interests.  To move forward, one has to give a little to gain a lot.  If we all agree to look beyond our personal perspectives and work for the good of the entire Town, we will soon come up with a project that serves the greater good together. 

I encourage each of you to look at what you brought to the table to resolve this problem of moving forward with progress for Irondequoit.