HomeMy WebLinkAbout5.F.6. Library Noise/Sun Issues ~~~b
CITY OF SHAKOPEE
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Memorandum ~
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mark McNeill, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Library Noise/Sun Issues
DATE: March 13, 2008
Comment:
Introduction:
Council has asked to authorize staff to proceed with finding solutions for a couple of
building issues at the Shakopee Library.
Background:
The current Library opened in the Fall of 2003. Two of the unique design features of the
Library are skylights which provide for natural lighting of the second floor, and an open
atrium which connects functions of the upper and lower floors.
However, both of those issues have created some functional problems for Library staff.
The layout of the upstairs staffing area creates sunlight issues, such that computer screens
cannot be read, and during the summer, the desk area becomes uncomfortably warm. In
addition, the open atrium creates noise issues for individuals on the second floor.
A request of $46,000 of expenditures was made in the FY08 budget to address these two
issues. The Council chose not to place that allotment into the budget, but instead decided
to wait to see whether the City would receive the anticipated Market Value Homestead
Credit payment from the State. It would then make a determination to whether the City
would pursue solutions to the noise and sunlight issues.
In November, Market Value Homestead Credit was received (a total of $520,000).
Therefore, funding is available, should the Council choose to address the issues.
Staff will pursue some lesser cost options initially (rather than, for example, get bids to
enclose the open portions of the atrium area with glass). Staff will be getting. quotes on
placing window shades on the south and west side of the southernmost skylight, as
opposed to tinting the glass, which will voids warranties on the skylight glass. That
should be relatively small cost. In addition, BKV, the architect that designed the building,
has indicated that they will donate some of their time to seek alternatives for dampening
some of the noise transmission issues. For example, fabric hangings might reduce the
noise to an acceptable level.
However, before any expenditures to attempt to fix the problems are made, Council
would receive a report on recommendations, and would be asked to approve work to be
done.
Budget Impact:
As stated above, money is available as a result of the Market Value Homestead Credit
payment received in November, 2007. Expenditures would come from a future budget
amendment.
Recommendation:
I recommend that staff be directed to seek solutions to resolve the sunlight and noise
transmission issues at the Shakopee Library, and report back to the City Council.
Relationship to Visioning:
This supports. Goal B (High Quality of Life).
Action Required:
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, direct staff to research solutions for noise
and sunlight issues at the Shakopee Library.
t
Mark McNeill
City Administrator
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