We learn that HKP’s estimates and plans to build a library are beyond the scope and ability of the Library and Foundation to fundraise.
Local benefactors purchase the Legion Hall with the intent to remodel and donate the building to the Library District.
The benefactors remodel the Legion Hall. The Task Force stops meeting. Roger Howard’s services are put on hold.
Library staff spends considerable time and effort planning a layout for the new library that considers staff requirements for good sight lines, work efficiencies, and patron safety concerns. These requirements follow up on the vision laid out in the Building Program. See 3D visioning of the library here.
The New Building Task Force is reconvened to help coordinate the next steps in turning the renovated Legion Hall into the new Upper Skagit Library. Again, USL Board members, USL Foundation members, library staff and community members are invited to participate. Roger Howard’s services as Project Manager are renewed.
High, medium, and low priority items/tasks for the new building are discussed and prioritized according to the District’s budget and staff and Task Force input. Compare the electrical plan additions here.⇓
GeoTest scans front entry to establish size limits for new doors.
The Task Force recommends to the USL Board that a new roof be installed as well as structural reinforcement of the ceiling. The Board agrees and votes to move forward on the work.
Some interior modifications are started by Mike Scott. We mutually agree to hold off on any further work until the ceiling structural repairs are complete.
Ceiling structure repair is bid out
Front entry is enlarged by Ace Concrete Cutting, and insulated entry doors are installed by Doorman Commercial. The new doors are weather tight, secure, and help the foyer function as an airlock for the main room.
The District deems it unsafe to install the weight of lighting until this work is complete. It was determined that it would be most economical and efficient to complete this contract before any further interior work.
Because the original lighting plan was a draft developed by staff, and due to the need to verify costs, the Library Board decides it would be best to employ an electrical engineer to provide a range of lighting options for board review. They also agree to review all planned projects before moving forward.
Project Manger Roger Howard resigns due to health concerns.
The Upper Skagit Library staff wrote-up their dreams and visions for the new building and presented them to the Task Force. Later, a review of State Statute for Public Works Contracting stated that the USL must follow state statute using public funds no matter how big or small a project and requires a professional engineer or architect.
Structural work was completed to provide earthquake stability in addition to the structural repairs. The ability to safely occupy the space can now allow work to continue.
The Task Force met with SHKS Architects regarding their proposal, the final contract to include scope of services, phases of the project, etc. - BoT voted to accept contract with SHKS to complete the new library building.
SHKS went through the new building and assessed it’s needs putting together 2D and 3D programs for the Task Force to view. It include different cost options for projects. There is currently no completion date. The bottom line is quality, not frills.
Meanwhile, the Task Force met to discuss and explore any and all options for grants and/or loans to support funding the new USL library.
Four new Upper Skagit citizens join the USL Board of Trustees. The Board will review all aspects of the final contract before the final approval will be given.
New diagrams for the interior layout/floor plan were reviewed. Some contract bids for pending work are already out. The new building’s exterior was checked / tested for lead and none was found. There are only five items remaining for SHKS to get done.
In March - Covid-19 restrictions begin. The USL architect / SHKS begins working remotely. It is learned that bids cannot go out until the state gives an all‐clear.
The final package of work was completed and reviewed by the BoT and comments were accumulated from all board and task force members. USL BoT approved the final SHKS package’s scope of work. The board now awaits a response from SHKS concerning BoT comments.