Fernandina Beach branch library project approved on 4 - 1 Nassau County Commission vote

Submitted by Susan Hardee Steger

A Christmas card sent during the season of giving by the Friends of the Library (FOL) was at the center of  County Commissioner Steve Kelley's comments prior to the Nassau County Commissioner's 4 -1 vote to approve  agreements with the City of Fernandina Beach that will begin the city's branch library expansion and renovation. Kelley's remarks prompted no comments from fellow commissioners.

Kelley who cast the dissenting vote  expressed his concern over the card message that celebrates the raising of 74% of the 2.4 million dollar project goal.  The card encouraged  gift giving options to further the FOL efforts.  Built into the FOL 2.4 million goal are upgrades to collections, refurbished and new furniture options, an automated self check out option and the addition of a technology center if additional fundraising efforts are successful.  According to Kelley, with agreement documentation indicating the project costs are 1.34 million, the figures  are "constantly changing as the project goes on." He  described the library project as "emotionally charged and politically driven."

According to City Manager Joe Gerrity, who will oversee the construction project, the next step is "to execute the contract with the contractor."  Gerrity was given approval to sign the contract at a previous city commission meeting.

Attending the county meeting was former County Commissioner Mike Boyle whose early efforts helped to provide $600,000 for the Fernandina branch library project.  Funding for the construction project comes from $600,000 pledged by the county, $600,000 pledged by the City, and $400,000 pledged by the Friends of the Library.

December 10, 2013 6:41 a.m.