Council has agreed to take no action regarding a letter from the library board suggesting the board withdraw their offer to purchase and instead lease the town office building to expand.
The letter, reviewed by council at its Feb. 25 meeting, stated the Rimbey Municipal Library staff and board of directors are concerned the proposed sale may divide the community.
“We are willing to work with all parties involved to serve the members of the community in the best way possible. As a result, the board of directors is willing to withdraw our offer to purchase the building for $1 and, in turn, lease it from the Town of Rimbey.”
The letter states the library will ensure delivery of payments to the town to the relocated town office and maintain the drop box for town mail.
The letter goes on to say the board has considered alternate locations for the library, but expansion within the current building is the most desirable.
The lack of space in the library has resulted in a restricted selection of books and difficulty in accommodating patrons for programs and events. There is also a shortage of office and workroom space.
“Our goal is to provide a well-run, accessible library that continues to play a strong role within the community. Our proposed expansion will help us achieve this goal.”
Mayor Sheldon Ibbotson said a decision regarding the sale or lease of the building is not viable at this time due to a petition now being circulated asking for a referendum regarding the sale of the office buildings to the library board for $1.
“Until we know what the petition states and if it is valid, it’s not possible to make any decisions concerning the library.”
However, Ibbotson would consider the option of leasing the building if the townspeople are more receptive to that alternative than they are to selling it.
“I’m open to looking at a lease if it serves to heal the division in the community.”
Ibbotson understands a petition is part of the democratic process.
“Every citizen has a right to hold council accountable for their decisions and to petition if they disagree with this decision. What’s unfortunate is that a few people have made this a personal issue directed at the library board. The library board is composed of hard working volunteers who are providing a great service to our community and they are being attacked for doing their job and doing it well.”
He also clarified a statement on the petition that states the proposed new town offices limits access for the disabled and elderly is incorrect.
“There is an elevator and wheelchair access. For anyone that’s not mobile, it is the easiest building in town to get around in.”