A proposed $121 million building project for the Shawano County Courthouse and jail does not include funds for a new public library.
However, a new library remains a priority for the county, as the building at 127 S. Sawyer St. is short on space and has infrastructure issues.
Previous discussions between county officials and consultants had settled on building a new library in the parking lot east of the current library and then razing the existing building for use as a parking lot.
Library officials and library board members are working with a different consultant on fundraising projects to help pay for that project.
Kurt Berner, of The Samuels Group, surprised Shawano County supervisors Feb. 25 with news that the Genex building at 117 E. Green Bay St. may be an option to consider, as the company is considering moving out of the space. The building is one-half block north of the library at East Green Bay and South Sawyer streets.
However, like the Peace United Church of Christ building once considered, the at-grade floor of the Genex building cannot structurally support the weight of the library’s books.
Berner said they are investigating constructing an addition to the west for the books, while using the existing space for offices, meetings rooms and programming needs. The parking lot to the north would be sufficient for library use.
“None of those details have been worked out, but right now, this option is rising to the top of the list of viable options,” Berner said.
Berner also said one of the benefits of the Genex building is that it could be prepared while the current library continues to be used. Building a new library adjacent to the current one while it is still being used could create safety issues and logistical concerns.
“We’re going to continue to explore it,” he said.
County Board Chairman Tom Kautza said contact has been made with U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin’s office for federal assistance. A $10 million request was made.
“That’s about what the other entities are asking for at this time,” Kautza said. “She is fairly good at getting a little federal money.”
kpasson@newmedia-wi.com
