{"id":113611,"date":"2024-09-26T18:00:43","date_gmt":"2024-09-26T22:00:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aroundfortwayne.com\/news\/?p=113611"},"modified":"2024-09-30T00:49:35","modified_gmt":"2024-09-30T04:49:35","slug":"acpl-moves-forward-with-facilities-master-plan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aroundfortwayne.com\/news\/2024\/09\/26\/acpl-moves-forward-with-facilities-master-plan\/","title":{"rendered":"ACPL moves forward with Facilities Master Plan"},"content":{"rendered":"

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The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) moves forward in its vision for enhancing library facilities across Allen County, Indiana.<\/p>\n

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News release from the Allen County Public Library:<\/p>\n

ACPL Moves Forward with Facilities Master Plan Funding Hearing<\/strong><\/p>\n

Fort Wayne, Indiana (September 30, 2024) \u2013 The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) is excited to move forward in its vision for enhancing library facilities across the county. The ACPL Board of Trustees heard public comment at its September 26 regarding Phase 1 of its Facilities Master Plan (FMP). This plan includes critical infrastructure and facility upgrades to preserve and strengthen the community\u2019s world-class and much-loved library system.<\/p>\n

Download a copy of the ACPL’s Facilities Master Plan overview<\/a>.<\/p>\n

At the hearing, community members provided valuable feedback in the most recent example of the Library\u2019s pursuit of direct community input. Since 2021, the ACPL has conducted multiple focus groups, surveys, and open hearings to ensure the plan is a true reflection of the community\u2019s needs. Most recently the Library enlisted American Pulse, a nationally known polling company, to survey more than 500 Allen County residents representing a range of political ideologies and demographics. That poll showed overwhelming support for the plan and an understanding that delaying further will only result in higher costs down the road.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe believe we\u2019ve done our homework and have a solid plan that the community wants, needs, and deserves,\u201d said ACPL Executive Director Susan P. Baier. \u201cThis library is a beloved institution in Allen County with a long track record of service and excellence. The taxpayers continue to tell us they see the value in investing in our future, and they want that investment to happen as soon as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Library \u2013 ever aware of the impact of large projects on the lives of Allen County taxpayers \u2013 has worked with community leaders to ensure the plan\u2019s bond request is made at the appropriate time.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve reached the point where further delay will result in even higher construction costs, damage to our buildings, or potential closure of some locations,\u201d said Baier. \u201cThat is unacceptable to our team and Board so we must move forward now and work with our County Council partners to secure these funds. We\u2019re ready and we know our community is as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

The ACPL\u2019s most recent tax bond was paid off in 2021 and it currently carries no bond debt. The Facilities Master Plan includes improvements at all locations funded by a combination of Library reserve funds and property tax bonds. The Board\u2019s Capital Projects Committee has prioritized a first phase of projects at locations whose current facilities are not sustainable due to age, size, or severe structural problems.<\/p>\n

Phase 1 of the FMP requires approval of a tax bond of 37 million dollars combined with more than 20 million dollars from the ACPL\u2019s reserve funds. The estimated tax impact is $0.0165 per $100 of assessed home value. For context, a homeowner with an assessed value of $150,000 could anticipate an increase of $10.94 annually. The bonds would also be subject to the existing tax caps.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis plan is an incredible value for the residents of Allen County,\u201d said ACPL Board of Trustees President Ben Eisbart. \u201cThey will get world-class facilities, a collection of millions of titles, expert librarian assistance, and more \u2013 a true People\u2019s Palace \u2013 all for the price of a fast food lunch!\u201d<\/p>\n

If the bond is secured \u2013 the ACPL will move forward with Phase 1 projects at the following locations:<\/p>\n