 | | | Photo Andy Scheck | | | | | | It's hard to miss the giant signs in front of the old Lafayette library and the former doctor's office across the street. What to do with this pair of city-owned properties is currently in the hands of the Old Library Reuse Task Force that is seeking to evaluate and make a recommendation on the highest, best and most fiscally responsible use. The group wanted to get the word out to other interested parties, who may have missed the initial outreach effort, hence the signs.
Consisting of volunteers who represent a range of viewpoints and some city leaders, the task force first set out to find a way to compare proposals. After much discussion, project evaluation criteria were nailed down and consist of a four-part analysis: plan consistency, environmental impacts, economic and social impacts, and success factors. The thorough list of questions for all applicants runs the gamut from traffic congestion, a credible business plan, and obviously very important - does the proposer have the appropriate financing in place to complete rehabilitation and construction.
Presentations have already been made by the City of Lafayette and the Lafayette Dance Center, along with a combined effort from Lafayette Senior Services Commission and the Lafayette Community Foundation to form a downtown community center. Additional proposals from Futures Explored, Eden Housing, Wellspring Educational Services and the Lafayette School District will likely stretch into the summer months.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA