Link to November 10 Wisconsin State Journal article, "City Council agrees on Central Library plan".
Excerpt: Finally, after years of delay and frustration, Madison is getting a new central library.
The City Council late Tuesday dropped the most serious objections to Mayor Dave Cieslewicz's financing plan for the $37 million, six-story, glass and stone library, meaning construction could start next year.
Activist Stuart Levitan summed up sentiment in the chambers, telling the council, "For 135 years the city of Madison has supported its public library. ... If you honor that past, the future will honor you."
Cieslewicz, who took a political risk in proposing the library in a troubled economy, wants to use $17 million in borrowing, $6 million federal tax credits, $4 million from the sale of the existing library site and $10 million in private fundraising over three years to pursue the Fiore Cos.' proposal for a facility at Henry Street and West Washington Avenue that would be part of a larger development.
In the end, the mayor won a sweeping victory with broad support on the council and no public testimony against the project. (RG's emphasis.)
The main concern was that the new library not divert money from branch updates and additions.
I just sent Barb Dimick, Madison Public Library Director, a congratulatory email. (bdimick@ci.madison.wi.us)
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