WARSAW — The Warsaw Community Public Library board met on Monday, Sept. 12, to discuss the the 2017 budget and choose what construction company would do the work on the foundation drainage work.

Ann Zydek, library director, mentioned the total for the general budget for the year 2017 is $3,270,000 and the rainy day budget is $260,355. Zydek indicated that one major difference between this years’ budget and those prior is the clear separation of what funding comes from property tax. The board will be adopting the 2017 budget next month.

The board voted to change the policy of where enclosed drinks and snacks will be allowed the library. Prior to the vote, enclosed drinks and snacks were only allowed downstairs, where there are no computers. However, the library had been approached by some individuals who indicated they needed to eat or drink due to health issues. The board unanimously passed a vote to allow there to be designated areas in the upstairs of the library where patrons may eat and drink.

The board received quotes for work on foundation drainage. Milestone Construction Inc. quoted $23,440. D and C Construction Co. quoted $34,145 or $34,585, depending on what tile is used. The board discussed why the quotes were so different. Architect, Jeff Kunfer, mentioned that both companies looked at the same sets of drawings, so he was unsure why the quotes varied. Kunfer did offer, “Once you start digging, you don’t know what you’re getting into,” in reference to the fact that perhaps one bid was higher because they might be anticipating some unforeseen issues. The board voted, and unanimously decided to go with Milestone Construction.

The board discussed issues with the heating and cooling system due to thunder and lighting from storms on Thursday, Sept. 8. The air conditioner which cools the computer room in the library was failing to work, which may have caused the library to overheat.

The board discussed continuing issues with the irrigation system. Zydek mentioned they have sent out for bids on fixing the lawn but have not received bids yet.

Other News:

• Amanda McFarland began working as the adult resources coordinator on Aug. 31.
• Duane Herendeen received “The Difference Is You” award at a library conference.
• The board continued to discuss how the library will celebrate its 100 year anniversary.
• The library is continuing to look into prices on 3-D printers.