Meredith voters to decide next step in library project

MEREDITH — Voters attending the Meredith Town Meeting on Wednesday, March 13, will decide the next step in the process of renovating and expanding the Benjamin M. Smith Memorial Library, commonly known as the Meredith Public Library.

The question appears as Article 14 on the Town Meeting warrant for March 13, seeking $400,000 for the final architectural design. Approval would allow the town to make a formal request for qualifications for an architectural firm to handle the final design work.

In the past, the library trustees had favored a conceptual plan by Lavallee Brensinger Architects, while a joint study committee had recommended a different plan by Samyn-D'Elia Architects. The RFQ process will lead to the selection of a firm to develop detailed plans that would address space needs as well as a number of code requirements for safety and accessibility.

The Meredith Board of Selectmen has unanimously recommended passage of the article.

Ann Butler, chair of Library Board of Trustees, said the trustees will seek public comment as a key part of the design process.

“The trustees are planning on using a charrette process to get as many people as possible to participate," she said. "We will be updating the public regularly as the planning process moves forward.”

The $400,000 appropriation would come from the town's unexpended fund balance, so it will not affect the tax rate if passed.

According to the trustees, this first step in the process is required by town policy. Library trustees will be sending out the formal request for qualifications, and will select the architect for the job.

The Town Meeting will take place in the Inter-Lakes High School gymnasium at 7 p.m. on the 13th.

– Thomas P. Caldwell