Council approved library project 5-2

The Dublin City Council approved the library project Monday night by a 5-2 vote. Numerous residents of the community presented testimony on both sides of the issue. Thanks to everyone who participated. Our voices made a difference in this case. Everyone seemed to agree on the need for a new, larger library. Opponents focused on a series of technical issues that required the project to seek a number of waivers to certain expectations of the city's development code. It is important to note that all projects require some waivers. This happens since the building code is created to cover typical generic buildings, when in reality each building proposed is unique, and may relate to a specific site in unique ways. For example, measuring the height of a building sitting on flat ground seems easy. But what is the height when there is a dramatic change in grade that affects one corner of a building? Creative and clever solutions that architects devise to such challenges often involve such waivers. The library did agree to increase the use of stone on the exterior of the building, and to work with the city to design a public art project with a unifying theme modeled on the city's motto, "Where yesterday meets tomorrow." The project will require some additional reviews as it moves through the final approval stages. This occurs as plans are developed more fully, and all the design and engineering work is finalized. The library is eager to begin construction, so check the news regularly for updates as they occur. Thank you all for your support of this special project.