For almost 60 years, the Mendon Public Library has been a treasured part of our community. It is more than a building - it is a gathering place, a landmark, and a welcoming public space. The library and the green lawn in front of it have long provided a setting for children's programs, community events, casual conversations, and quiet reflection.

Today, that green space is at risk.

Developers are proposing an urgent care facility on the property currently occupied by Critic's restaurant, the existing Critic's parking lot, and the majority of the green space in front of the library. Under the current proposal, most of the grass and trees would be replaced with pavement, leaving only a narrow strip of green space between the library and the parking area.

This change would significantly alter the character of one of our community's most recognizable public spaces. The library was intentionally designed to be visually prominent and welcoming from the road. The loss of the green space would diminish both the appearance of the library and the community atmosphere that has existed for the last 15 years.

We support efforts to expand healthcare services in our community. However, we believe there are alternative locations that can meet healthcare and parking needs without sacrificing a valuable public green space. We encourage local leaders to explore solutions that balance development with preservation.

Specifically, we ask the Village of Honeoye Falls, the Town of Mendon, the Mendon Public Library Board, and any other required parties to pursue subdivision of the property so that the library can permanently secure ownership of some or all of the green space in front of the library.

Preserving this area would:

• Protect an important community gathering space used for library programs
• Maintain the visibility and character of the Mendon Public Library
• Preserve grass, trees, and natural landscaping in Honeoye Falls
• Support the library's sustainability goals and ongoing Sustainability Certification efforts
• Ensure future generations can continue to enjoy this welcoming public space

Before any plans move forward that would convert this area into additional parking, we ask decision-makers to fully evaluate alternatives that preserve as much green space as possible while still addressing community needs.

The choice does not have to be between healthcare and preservation. With thoughtful planning, our community can achieve both.

By signing this petition, you are asking local officials to protect all or part of the green space in front of the Mendon Public Library and to pursue solutions that preserve this important community asset for future generations.

Please join us in supporting a library that remains visible, welcoming, and preserves the adjacent green space that has been part of its identity for over a decade.

Here is a series of images from the Honeoye Falls Facebook Page, posted on 6/4/26, showing the proposed development plan:

Here are two proposals to subdivide the existing lot and transfer ownership of the green area to the Mendon Public Library:

1. View from Google Maps showing a view showing all of  green space area marked  (approximately  12,000 square feet) 

          2. View from Google Maps showing a view of half of  the green space area marked (approximately  6,400 square feet)