Questions answered

Dear editor:
I feel I need to address the citizens of Fort Frances and the patrons
of the Fort Frances Public Library concerning numerous rumours and misleading statements that have been circulating throughout the community about the building of the new library.
I hope the following Q & A will help to clear up some of the confusion and fear that appear to have arisen around the library project.
1. What has happened to the money/pledges contributed?
All of the money, including interest, is in a special bank account called ”Library Building Fund.”
2. Can this money be used for any other purpose by the town?
No.
3. Where is the $1.6 million received from the Ministry of Culture?
The cheque, made out to the Fort Frances Public Library Board, was received in March, 2006. The money, along with interest, also is in the “Library Building Fund” account.
4. Has money been spent or committed for the project thus far?
Yes. The town has signed agreements with the architect and the project manager. Money has been paid out for work done and there will be more money due for work that has been contracted as per the signed agreements.
Soil tests have been done and paid for. If the project were to be cancelled or changed at this late date, we expect the total money paid out would be roughly $250,000.
5. Would local contractors and tradesmen be able to build the library?
Yes. The steering committee believes that given the size and structure of the proposed library, there would be local people capable of building it.
Of course, with a much larger, more complicated joint facility with Robert Moore School, this would be highly unlikely.
6. Has the design of the library been changed recently?
Yes. The main change is that it has been reduced from 17,000 sq. ft. to 13,770 sq. ft. Other changes were made in materials, furnishings, landscaping, etc. to reduce costs.
I hope this answers some of your questions. If you have further questions, please contact me at 274-9248 or at joycec@jam21.net.
Sincerely,
Joyce Cunningham
Chair, Fort Frances
Public Library Board